Termites are one of the most destructive pests in the United States, causing an estimated $5 billion in damage each year. Subterranean termites are particularly troublesome, as they can easily go undetected while doing extensive damage to a home or other building.
If you live in The Woodlands, TX, it’s important to be on the lookout for signs of subterranean termite activity. Here are some things to look for:
1. Mud tubes on the exterior of your home: Subterranean termites travel back and forth between their nests and their food source (wood). To do this, they build mud tubes, which are about the diameter of a pencil and made of mud, saliva, and feces. These tubes protect the termites from predators and the elements as they travel.
2. Damaged wood: Subterranean termites eat wood from the inside out, so you may not see any damage on the surface of the wood. However, if you tap on the wood and it sounds hollow, that’s a good sign that the termites have eaten away the inside.
3. Swarms of winged insects: If you see a swarm of insects near your home, they may be termites. Termites have four wings that are all the same size, while ants have two large wings and two small wings.
If you see any of these signs, it’s important to contact a pest control professional right away. Subterranean termites can cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time, so it’s best to get them taken care of as soon as possible.
What Does A Subterranean Termite Look Like?
Subterranean termites are small, pale insects that live in colonies underground. They have long, narrow bodies and four wings that are all the same size. They vary in size depending on their role in the colony, with soldiers being larger than workers.
Subterranean termite swarmers are reproductive termites that leave the nest to mate and start new colonies. They are dark brown or black in color and have two pairs of wings that are different sizes. Swarmer termites are about 1/2 inch long, including their wings.
Worker termites are responsible for gathering food and building the mud tubes that the termites use to travel. They are pale white or cream in color and have no wings. Worker termites are about 1/4 inch long.
Soldier termites are responsible for protecting the colony from predators. They have large, dark brown or black heads and no wings. Soldier termites are about 1/2 inch long.
How Do You Get Subterranean Termites?
There are a few different ways that subterranean termites can find their way into your home. One way is through cracks in the foundation or other openings in the structure of the home. Another way is by coming up through the soil into mud tubes that they build.
Another way that subterranean termites can get into your home is by hitchhiking on firewood, lumber, or other wood that’s brought into the home. They can also be brought in through potted plants. Once they’re inside, they’ll start to build their mud tubes and begin eating the wood in your home.
How Do You Prevent Subterranean Termites?
There are a few things you can do to prevent subterranean termites from getting into your home. One thing you can do is to make sure that there are no cracks or openings in your foundation or other parts of the structure of your home.
Another thing you can do is to keep firewood, lumber, and other wood away from your home. If you have potted plants, make sure to inspect them regularly for termites. And finally, be sure to contact a pest control professional if you see any signs of subterranean termite activity.
How Does CPL Pest Control Inspect Your Home For Subterranean Termites?
At CPL Pest Control, we have a team of highly trained and experienced pest control professionals who will inspect your home for signs of subterranean termites. We’ll look for things like mud tubes, damaged wood, and swarms of insects. If we find any signs of subterranean termites, we’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan that will get rid of them for good.
Call us today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have and help you get started on the path to a termite-free home.
Subterranean termites can cause a lot of damage to your home if they’re not dealt with quickly and properly. If you think you might have subterranean termites, the best thing to do is to contact a pest control professional right away. At CPL Pest Control, we have a team of highly trained and experienced pest control professionals who will be able to quickly and effectively get rid of the termites in your home. Call us now! 281-683-6737
