Termites are insects that eat cellulose, a primary substance found in wood and paper products. Termites have microorganisms within their digestive system that allows for consuming wooden material. Termites form large colonies with other members separated into castes based on their function, such as workers, soldiers, and those tasked with reproductive activities.
Compared to most other U.S. states, Florida is home to a diverse array of roughly 20 termite species, partly because these pests thrive in warm and humid conditions. The termite species that most commonly plague homeowners in the region include subterranean termites and drywood termites.
Subterranean is a term used for categorizing termites that specifically build underground nests and create “tunnel-like” mud tubes that allow access to sources of wood above. Both the subterranean termite workers and soldiers appear as off-white or cream; however, the soldiers typically have a distinct darker-colored head. The reproductive alates or “swarmers” appear brown or black and have wings.
Unlike subterranean termites that live in moist soil and prefer water-damaged wood, dry wood termites require minimal amounts of moisture and often target sound, undamaged areas of wood. All members of a drywood termite colony have a somewhat uniform appearance in colors such as yellow, tan, or brown, and only the alates have wings.
Are termites dangerous creatures? Although termites pose minimal human health risks, they are destructive pests that create billions of dollars in property damages annually in the U.S.
Are you noticing signs of possible termite activity? An experienced Fort Myers pest control service provider not only knows the best strategies and treatment options but also knows how to eliminate termites safely.
You’re Likely Never To See A Termite
Although termite colonies, particularly subterranean species, will form huge colonies often exceeding 50,000 members, they often remain undetected for weeks or months by homeowners. Aside from being rather “silent” destroyers of wood, they also generally begin eroding wooden structures from the inside.
Signs Of Termite Damage To Look For Around The House
Are you wondering how do I know if I have termites? It is critical that homeowners understand how to spot termite damage before the problem worsens and results in much more costly concerns. Look for the winged “swarmers” congregating together during the spring months at the onset of the mating season.
Often the tunnels or mud tubes that subterranean termites use for safe passage to the underground nest are visible. The tubes are approximately the width of a pencil and have a patterned appearance.
Walls might also sound hollow when knocked on. Erosion of wooden structures often creates shifts making windows and doors progressively more difficult to open or close.
What does a queen termite look like generally? Typically outliving a king, the queen of a subterranean termite colony could live for more than 25 years. Aside from being the largest termite in a colony, the queen also plays the most important role. She usually appears pale yellow, tan, or black, and as the queen grows, she eventually will generate more than 5,000 eggs per year.
How To Identify And Remove Factors That Attract Termites
Property owners should educate themselves about the types of property conditions that will likely invite problems with termites. Some of the best preventative measures include:
- Promptly address areas of water-damaged wood, as such conditions make the premises susceptible to termite invasions. Properly ventilate these areas and use a dehumidifier when necessary.
- Remove unnecessary wood from the area adjacent to the home, such as firewood piles, fallen trees, mulch, or other accumulations of organic material.
- Create a barrier of protection that prevents wooden parts of the structure from directly contacting the soil using materials such as screen mesh or stone.
Keep in mind that detecting termite problems early on is critically important. It might make the difference between the need for minor repairs or a much more costly replacement project.
Contact The Pros At The First Sign Of Termites In Your House
Often, individuals with the best of intentions search for solutions in local home improvement retailers regarding how to get rid of termites in Florida. Some of the most prevalent store-bought product offerings include spray foams, termite powders, and concentrated formulas that are general and “one-size-fits-all” options. This approach is inherently problematic because each termite-related intrusion is unique to a certain extent based on the configuration of the property, variable conditions that exist, species of termite involved, and much more.
At Stat Pest Control, we initially assess the nature and extent of the termite infestation and use this information to determine the best-customized treatment option. Property owners in Fort Myers who suspect a termite infestation exists on their property should contact us today for a consultation.
