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Subterranean Termites – The Silent Killer   arrow

Subterranean Termites – The Silent Killer

 

Where do Subterranean Termites Live

Subterranean termites, as their name implies live underground. Their nest size can be well over 100,000 members with their sole purpose of ingesting cellulose.  These termites are all around us, or should I say, under our feet. Generally, we do not know they are present until BAM.. there is damage to our homes.  Consequently, they can go undetected for years as they munch on the wood in our homes.

Moisture and Subterranean Termites

Now, Subterranean termites require moisture for survival. They will build tunnels to our wood and return to the soils to tend the colony and for additional water. What brings them to our home in the first place? Generally, a leak is the culprit.  Sadly, as the water leak wets the wood in our house or the surrounding soil, termites are attracted and begin their feeding frenzy.  Once the termites arrive, severe damage can occur due to the moisture and the feeding by these wood-eating creatures.

Reduce the Likelihood of Subterranean Termites

There are things you can do to reduce the likelihood of an infestation. First, correct any leaks. Second, gutters should be in good working order and flow the rainwater away from the house. The air conditioning drip line should be extended away from the structure to prevent water from pooling near the house. Remove stumps and wood debris from soil contact. Moreover, no wood, on the building or fence, should touch the ground. Stucco is best when it does not fall below the soil line. Also, make sure no water pools near your home and all rainwater drain away from the house.

Treatment – Subterranean Termites

Even if you do everything listed above, subterranean termites may still attack your home. Since these termites go undetected until their damage is done, consider a professional termite service to help. Two services will aid in the prevention and control of the termites. One way is to use a liquid termiticide. This product is trench around your home, and the concrete is drilled to allow the placement of a termiticide under the slabs. The second methodology is the use of a baiting program. These bait stations are placed around the structure. The stations are inspected at scheduled intervals. Bait stations are less invasive and allow a termite technician to visit your home more frequently than you will get from a liquid application.

I have given you some tips to reduce the likelihood of subterranean termites from attacking your home. Start with the items listed and anything else you see where water is an issue or wood is touching the soil. Then, hire a professional pest control company to provide a preventative treatment before these silent killers destroy your biggest investment, your home.