Subterranean termites are one of the most destructive pests in the United States. These small insects can cause extensive damage to both homes and businesses, including structural damage and extensive repair costs. To prevent an infestation, it’s important to understand what subterranean termites are, how they behave, where they live, and the signs of an infestation.
What is a Subterranean Termite?
Subterranean termites are small insects that feed on wood and other cellulose materials. They typically live in colonies and build underground tunnels and nests. The termites are usually light brown or white and range from a quarter of an inch to three-eighths of an inch in size.
These insects are particularly damaging because they often feed on the structural supports of buildings, such as the floors, walls, and ceilings. They can also do damage to furniture, decks, and other items made of wood.
Subterranean Termite Behavior
Subterranean termites live in large colonies that are typically located close to sources of water, such as sprinkler systems, leaking pipes, and underground water sources. The insects feed on wood and other cellulose materials and use the material to build tunnels and nests.
Meanwhile, subterranean termites are known to travel long distances in search of food. This means they can quickly spread to other locations. They are also able to survive in a variety of climates and can survive in both dry and wet conditions.
Unfortunately, these pests are found throughout Virginia and much of the United States. They are a major pest problem in the state and can cause extensive damage to homes and businesses.
Subterranean Termite Habitat
Subterranean termites typically build their nests in moist and dark environments. They usually nest in the soil near a source of water, but they can also nest in wood or other materials.
Furthermore, subterranean termites are attracted to wood and other cellulose materials, including paper and cardboard. They can also be attracted to damp areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics.
These pests typically build their nests in moist and dark environments. They usually nest in the soil near a source of water, but they can also nest in wood or other materials. Just like other termites, they are attracted to wood and other cellulose materials, including paper and cardboard. They can also be attracted to damp areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics.
Signs of Subterranean Termite Infestation
The signs of a subterranean termite infestation can vary, but there are a few common indicators. These include:
- Swarmers, or winged adult termites, near windows and doors
- Discarded wings near windows and doors
- Mud tubes on the foundation of the structure
- Damaged wood
- Hollow sounding wood
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact a professional pest control service as soon as possible.
Subterranean termites can be a major problem for homeowners and businesses, but with a basic understanding of their behavior, habitat, and signs of an infestation, you can take steps to protect your property from these destructive pests.
When you suspect that you have a termite infestation at your home, be sure to contact James Rivers pest solutions for assistance.
Tips for Preventing Subterranean Termite Infestation
Prevention is the best method to avoid a termite infestation. Be sure to take the following steps to prevent these pests from destroying your home:
- Regularly inspect the exterior of your home for any structural damage, such as cracks in your foundation or siding, or rotting wood.
- Make sure that any wood stored in your basement or garage is away from the walls and properly sealed so that it does not attract termites.
- Keep your gutters and downspouts clean and free of debris so that water does not collect near the foundation of your home.
- Make sure that any vents or openings in the foundation of your home don’t provide an entryway for termites.
- Install a moisture barrier around the foundation of your home to prevent moisture build-up and create a deterrent for termites. House wrap is a good example, which is installed under house siding.
- Prune any trees or shrubs that are near the foundation of your home and make sure that they are not touching the house.
- Regularly inspect your home for termite activity, such as mud tubes or swarmers
Contact James Rivers Pest Solutions for Subterranean Termite Troubles
If you have a subterranean termite infestation, James Rivers Pest Solutions is here to help. Please contact us today for assistance.