Termites
PEST CONTROL

Termites are the most important of the wood destroying insects. The subterranean termite is found in every state in the United States. The winged termite (swarmer’s), emerge from their colonies on colonizing flights during certain seasons of the year. These swarmers are often the first visible signs that you may have a termite problem. After a brief flight the wings are broken off and the male and female termites pair up and attempt to establish a new colony in the earth.  

Moisture is crucial to termite survival because all castes except the swarmers are soft bodied insects that lose water rapidly upon exposer to the air. Because of this termites construct mud tubes that go from the ground to a food source, these tubes provide a moist environment and safety from predators.

Feeding: Termites eat wood and live in the earth, no wood is off their diet. However, the Eastern subterranean termite prefers pine wood. The condition of the wood is also important as decayed wood is eaten faster and preferred over sound wood.     

Proactive steps to minimize termite exposure:  
A majority of structural termite infestations are associated with contact of wood to the ground. Timbers in crawl spaces should be at least 18 inches from the ground. Firewood, landscape timber and compost piles stacked to close to the house attract termites and provide a hidden entry point. Stack these items away from the house. Dense vegetation should not be allowed to grow against the siding and foundation of the building. Mulch and wood chips can also attract termites by providing both a food source and favorable moisture conditions. Consider pea gravel or crushed stone as an alternative to mulch and wood chips.

Signs of termites:

Swarming, flying insects in and around structure are signs of a termite infestation. Swarming termites drop their wings soon after they find a good location, so look for these wings on the sill of the basement or on the floor. Mud tubes going from the earth up the side of the foundation are another common area for termites.