Different types of termites require different termite control methods. Subterranean termites live in the soil because they require moisture. Drywood termites do not require as much moisture, so they can live in dry wood. Fumigation is an effective control for drywood termites but not for subterranean termites. Subterranean termite control requires either bait systems or soil treatments.
Subterranean termites are widespread across the U.S., mostly in the southern states. Because of their wide distribution, experts say subterranean termites cause most of the termite damage to homes and other structures every year. Around $4.5 billion is spent annually for termite control and to repair the damage caused.
The ideal situation for subterranean termites is to find wood that is in close contact with the soil. If they find wood nearby but not touching the soil, they will build "mud tubes," to connect the colony to their food, the wood. Mud tubes are essentially highways that allow termites access to their food supply without being exposed to predators or weather.
The nature of termites is to remain hidden. They avoid exposure to the outside environment. In addition to the use of mud tubes, they also prefer to remain hidden on the inside of wood. This makes termite control all the more difficult. Infested wood may appear perfectly normal on the outside while the inside is largely eaten away.
So how can subterranean termites be detected? Mud tubes are an obvious sign. Accumulations of wings are another bad sign, especially if they are recent. If a patch of wood looks suspicious, tap on it with the handle of a screwdriver. Any hollow sounds should be considered another warning sign. Contact a termite control professional to verify your findings.
There are only 2 effective methods of termite control for subterranean termites. The first is soil treatments and the second is bait systems. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Soil treatments can be intrusive for most homeowners, plus they use relatively large amounts of chemicals. Advantages of soil treatments are that the termites can be eliminated fairly quickly. In addition, protection can continue for several years.
Baiting systems work by offering termites small amounts of wood as bait. When termites locate the bait, the wood is replaced by bait that contains a slow-acting poison. When it is taken back to the colony and shared, the colony dies. The advantages of this termite control system are that it is not disruptive, and that it uses very small amounts of poison. The disadvantages are that it may take several months to eliminate the colony, and that the cost of monitoring make it a bit more expensive than the soil treatment.
The behaviors and needs of subterranean termites are the key to both understanding and control. The first step is to locate potential problems around the home and make the changes needed to reduce the risk. The second step is to schedule annual termite inspections by a termite control professional. Immediate detection will minimize any damage and keep your home safe for years to come. - 30446
Subterranean termites are widespread across the U.S., mostly in the southern states. Because of their wide distribution, experts say subterranean termites cause most of the termite damage to homes and other structures every year. Around $4.5 billion is spent annually for termite control and to repair the damage caused.
The ideal situation for subterranean termites is to find wood that is in close contact with the soil. If they find wood nearby but not touching the soil, they will build "mud tubes," to connect the colony to their food, the wood. Mud tubes are essentially highways that allow termites access to their food supply without being exposed to predators or weather.
The nature of termites is to remain hidden. They avoid exposure to the outside environment. In addition to the use of mud tubes, they also prefer to remain hidden on the inside of wood. This makes termite control all the more difficult. Infested wood may appear perfectly normal on the outside while the inside is largely eaten away.
So how can subterranean termites be detected? Mud tubes are an obvious sign. Accumulations of wings are another bad sign, especially if they are recent. If a patch of wood looks suspicious, tap on it with the handle of a screwdriver. Any hollow sounds should be considered another warning sign. Contact a termite control professional to verify your findings.
There are only 2 effective methods of termite control for subterranean termites. The first is soil treatments and the second is bait systems. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Soil treatments can be intrusive for most homeowners, plus they use relatively large amounts of chemicals. Advantages of soil treatments are that the termites can be eliminated fairly quickly. In addition, protection can continue for several years.
Baiting systems work by offering termites small amounts of wood as bait. When termites locate the bait, the wood is replaced by bait that contains a slow-acting poison. When it is taken back to the colony and shared, the colony dies. The advantages of this termite control system are that it is not disruptive, and that it uses very small amounts of poison. The disadvantages are that it may take several months to eliminate the colony, and that the cost of monitoring make it a bit more expensive than the soil treatment.
The behaviors and needs of subterranean termites are the key to both understanding and control. The first step is to locate potential problems around the home and make the changes needed to reduce the risk. The second step is to schedule annual termite inspections by a termite control professional. Immediate detection will minimize any damage and keep your home safe for years to come. - 30446
About the Author:
Florida Bug Inspectors provides effective control of termites in Tampa, Brandon and surrounding communities. Russ Frank, the owner, has over 25 years experience solving tough termite and pest control problems in and around Tampa.
