Do you wish insects would just leave your home alone? You never want to see ants crawling across the floor again. Those cockroaches that keep appearing in the basement had better find a new place to live. Insects are gross and annoying, but thankfully, they are not that hard to get rid of if you rely on a professional pest control service. They can use the right combination of baits, traps, and sprays to get rid of the pesky insects. They'll leave your home alone just like you've always wanted. Read more in the articles to follow; we go into more detail.
Termites, whether you like it or not, play a crucial role in the ecosystem. However, when they invade your home and building, they can cause devastating damages and cost you thousands of dollars in repairs. In particular, subterranean termites are one of the most destructive species and are found all over the world, existing in colonies that feed on wood and other organic materials in the soil. In this blog post, we will explore the world of subterranean termites, their behavior, and how to keep them at bay.
What are subterranean termites?
Subterranean termites are a type of termite that lives underground. They build their colonies below the soil in humid environments and rely on moist soil to survive. These termites consume wood and other materials that contain cellulose, such as paper and fabrics. Unlike other termites, they require moisture to survive and construct specially designed tunnels called "mud tubes" to move above ground.
How do they cause damage?
Subterranean termites cause damage to buildings, wooden structures, and furniture by feeding on cellulose materials. They can eat through several inches of wood within a few months and can cause structural damage to a building. Since they live underground and move through mud tubes, identifying an infestation can be difficult. However, some signs of an infestation include hollow sounds when tapping on wood, discarded wings or mud tubes around your home, and small holes in plaster or drywall.
Preventing an infestation:
Prevention is key when it comes to dealing with subterranean termites. The best way to avoid an infestation is by making your home less attractive to termite colonies. This includes keeping moist environments, like basements and crawl spaces, dry and well-ventilated. Eliminating wood-to-soil contact around your home can also deter subterranean termites from accessing the structure.
Treatments:
If you suspect that you have a subterranean termite infestation, contact a professional pest control company for an inspection. Two common treatment methods for subterranean termites are liquid soil treatments and baiting systems. Liquid soil treatments involve applying a termiticide to the soil around the structure while baiting systems use a termite bait to kill the colony.
Subterranean termites are a significant threat to homes and buildings globally. These sneaky pests can cause massive damage and are difficult to detect. However, with proper prevention measures, such as keeping your home moisture-free and well-ventilated, you can minimize the risk of an infestation. If you suspect that you have a subterranean termite infestation, contact a professional immediately for an inspection. With the right treatment method, you can eliminate the colony and safeguard your home against future infestations.
Share8 January 2024
