Subterranean termites cause billions of dollars in damage to structures every year. Learn how to prevent termites and protect your home with this straightforward guide to recognizing signs of a termite infestation. Join our termite specialist, Reece, as he walks through a home inspection to help you learn more about these pests and termite prevention treatments to protect your property from destructive subterranean termites found in North Texas.
What Are Subterranean Termites?
Subterranean termites are a type of wood-destroying insect that lives underground. They are known for their ability to cause significant damage to homes and wooden structures, accounting for 95 percent of all termite damage in North America. These termites build their colonies in the soil and create mud tubes to access above-ground food sources. Subterranean termites are particularly prevalent in warm and humid climates, making North Texas a hotbed for termite activity.
How Termites Damage Structures
Termites damage structures by feeding on cellulose-rich wood and building materials. These pests use their saw-toothed jaws to chew on soft wood fibers, creating honeycomb-like tunnels and galleries within the wood, compromising its strength. Over time, this feeding can lead to significant structural damage, making buildings unsafe and requiring expensive repairs.
Where Do Subterranean Termites Live?
As the name suggests, subterranean termites live underground. However, their food source is generally above the surface. This species of termite constructs “mud tubes” from soil and their saliva to access resources while protecting their colonies from the open air.
Signs of Termite Infestation
Because subterranean termites can cause extensive damage quickly, it’s essential to be vigilant. Look for indicators of active termite colonies on your property – including your home, fence, wood piles, tree stumps, or additional structures like sheds and garages.
- Damaged wood that sounds hollow when tapped, or appears to be sagging, buckling, or crumbling.
- Piles of discarded wings near window sills, doors, or other entry points.
- Small piles of termite frass near wooden structures or along walls.
- Mud tubes along walls or foundations, typically about the width of a pencil.
- Flying termites, known as swarmers, in or near your property indicate that a termite colony may be present.
How to Protect Your Home
Subterranean termites already inhabit North Texas soil, so protecting your home involves several steps.
- Eliminate Excessive Moisture: Fix leaky plumbing and ensure proper drainage to reduce moisture levels that attract termites.
- Prevent Wood-Soil Contact: Move wood or lumber piles away from your home and cut back overgrown vegetation.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure crawl spaces and attics are well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup.
- Termite Prevention Treatments: Professionally applied liquid barriers around your home’s foundation can create a protective shield against termites. This is the best way to prevent termites and avoid more costly repairs.
Know When to Call the Pros
While homeowners can help contain some pest infestations, termites are the exception. If you suspect you may have active termites, your best course of action is to contact a professional to perform a termite inspection. ABC Home & Commercial Services offers detailed inspections, targeted treatments, and service guarantees for complete peace of mind.
