Overview
There are approximately 50 species of termites, which can be broken down into two categories; subterranean termites can be found underground, while drywood termites do not need soil as they establish their colonies within the wood they are feeding on.
Termites break down dead cellulose material, like wood, and turn it into fertile soil. Termites are a vital part of a functioning ecosystem, but they are also a well-known pest, causing over $5 billion in home damages each year in the United States. Though they are well-known, they are often difficult to detect because they are often hidden and/or mistaken for flying ants.
Termites break down dead cellulose material, like wood, and turn it into fertile soil. Termites are a vital part of a functioning ecosystem, but they are also a well-known pest, causing over $5 billion in home damages each year in the United States. Though they are well-known, they are often difficult to detect because they are often hidden and/or mistaken for flying ants.
What do termites
look like?
While termites do have many of the same traits as flying ants, there are some distinguishable differences. Ants have a distinct pinched waist, while termites are tube shaped. A flying ant has four wings that are two different sizes, while a termite has four clear wings that are equal sizes. Lastly, ants have bent antennae, while a termite’s antennae are straight.
There are different types of termites with their own distinguishing characteristics. Swarming termites have wings and normally will fly from their nests during warm months to establish new colonies. Soldier termites have large mandibles and will defend the colony against other pests. Worker termites are blind and pale in color.
There are approximately 50 species of termites, which can be broken down into two categories; subterranean termites can be found underground, while drywood termites do not need soil as they establish their colonies within the wood they are feeding on.
There are different types of termites with their own distinguishing characteristics. Swarming termites have wings and normally will fly from their nests during warm months to establish new colonies. Soldier termites have large mandibles and will defend the colony against other pests. Worker termites are blind and pale in color.
There are approximately 50 species of termites, which can be broken down into two categories; subterranean termites can be found underground, while drywood termites do not need soil as they establish their colonies within the wood they are feeding on.
How can you tell you have termites?
One of the earliest warning signs may be small flying insects, or termite swarmers, flying around your home, particularly around your windows. These swarmers often leave behind their wings, so look out for small clear insect wings around your home.
An obvious indicator of subterranean termites is the presence of their protective tunnels. These tiny tunnels are the termites’ entry points to above ground food sources from their underground colonies, and most commonly can be found near the foundation of an infested home. These tunnels are constructed out of mud, saliva, and fecal matter.
If your home is infested with termites, their damage is often easy to spot. Floors infested with termites will often blister or sag and become spongier. Cracks in walls and ceilings can indicate that a termite colony is living within your walls or attic. Wooden doors or window frames can also be infested with termites, and will often stick or become difficult to open with termite damage.hing for food.
An obvious indicator of subterranean termites is the presence of their protective tunnels. These tiny tunnels are the termites’ entry points to above ground food sources from their underground colonies, and most commonly can be found near the foundation of an infested home. These tunnels are constructed out of mud, saliva, and fecal matter.
If your home is infested with termites, their damage is often easy to spot. Floors infested with termites will often blister or sag and become spongier. Cracks in walls and ceilings can indicate that a termite colony is living within your walls or attic. Wooden doors or window frames can also be infested with termites, and will often stick or become difficult to open with termite damage.hing for food.
Control Methods
The best way to help prevent termites is to keep your home well maintained. Make sure pipes, air conditioning units, and other fixtures aren’t leaking, and ensure drainage sites remain clean and effective to eliminate the collection of excess moisture. Store firewood and lumber away from your home, and get rid of tree stumps, limbs, and yard debris. To prevent termites from accessing your home, caulk any cracks in your foundation and around utility lines, and install screens on any exterior vents. Of course, always monitor your wooden structures for signs of termite infestation.
What to do
if you have termites
Termites can severely weaken the wood within your home if left untreated, and may even cause your home to collapse. To help guard your home against termites and avoid expensive repair bills, take action at the first sign of infestation.
Pest Management Solutions has the knowledge and expertise to provide effective treatments and customized preventative methods to protect your home against termites. Call us today!
TERMITE CONTROL GREENVILLE SC and SPARTANBURG SC
Pest Management Solutions has the knowledge and expertise to provide effective treatments and customized preventative methods to protect your home against termites. Call us today!
TERMITE CONTROL GREENVILLE SC and SPARTANBURG SC
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