Termites are small but destructive pests that can cause significant damage to property if left unchecked. Unfortunately, getting termites is quite common. In this article, we’ll look at the causes of termite infestations and what you can do to protect your home from them.
What are Termites?
Termites are small insects that live in colonies and feed on wood and other cellulose-based materials. They are classified in the order Isoptera, and are closely related to cockroaches. Termites can be found in warm, humid climates and are a major nuisance for homeowners. They can cause extensive damage to structures by eating away at the wood, damaging foundations, and damaging electrical wiring. In some cases, termites can even cause structural collapse if left unchecked.
Types of Termites
Termites are small insects that feed on wood and other cellulose materials, such as paper and cloth. There are over 2,000 species of termites in the world, divided into three main categories: subterranean, drywood, and dampwood.
Subterranean Termites
Subterranean termites are the most common type of termite and the most destructive. They live in underground colonies and build mud tubes to reach food sources above ground. They primarily feed on wood and can cause significant damage to structures.
Drywood Termites
Drywood termites, as their name suggests, live in dry wood, such as furniture, flooring, and framing. Unlike subterranean termites, they do not need contact with the soil to survive. They are more common in parts of the US that have warmer climates, such as California and Florida.
Dampwood Termites
Dampwood termites prefer wood with high moisture content. They live in decaying wood, such as logs, stumps, and fallen trees. They are usually found in areas with high humidity, such as coastal regions and rainforests.
| Type | Habitat | Food Source | Geographical Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subterranean | Underground colonies | Wood | Worldwide |
| Drywood | Dry wood | Wood | Warm climates |
| Dampwood | Decaying wood | Wood | High humidity areas |
Signs of Termites
Termites cause damage that is difficult to detect without a professional inspection. The most common signs of a termite infestation include:
• Swarms of winged insects near sources of moisture indoors or outdoors.
• Presence of discarded wings near windowsills, doorframes and other areas around the home.
• Hollow-sounding wood when tapped on with a hard object.
• Piles of wood shavings and pellets near wood structures in the home.
• Mud tubes on walls or foundation of the home.
• Discoloration or blistering on wood surfaces.
• Cracked or bubbling paint on walls or ceilings.
• Visible damage to wood structures in the home.
Causes of Termites
Termites are caused by a combination of environmental factors. Moisture, warm temperatures, and darkness all contribute to the growth of termite colonies. Moisture is the most important factor, as termites need a moist environment to survive and thrive. This is why they are most commonly found in wood, soil, and other damp areas. Other environmental factors such as warm temperatures and darkness also contribute to the growth and spread of termite colonies. If these conditions are present, the termites can reproduce quickly and cause damage to the structural integrity of the building. Additionally, the presence of food sources, such as wood, can attract termites and cause them to congregate in one area. In some cases, termites can be accidentally introduced into a home through contaminated soil or wood.
Prevention Strategies
| Strategy | Description |
|---|---|
| Remove Moisture | Eliminating sources of moisture, such as dripping pipes, clogged gutters, and poorly drained soil, can help reduce the risk of termite infestations. |
| Reduce Wood to Ground Contact | Reducing contact between wood and soil helps keep termites away from the wooden structures in a home. |
| Eliminate Food Sources | Removing sources of food, such as piles of wood, leaves, and mulch, can help keep termites away from a home. |
| Keep Vents Clear | Vents should be kept clear at all times to prevent termites from entering the home. |
| Check for Leaks | Regularly check for leaks in the roof, foundation, and walls to reduce the risk of termite infestations. |
| Inspect Home Regularly | Regularly inspecting the home for signs of termite activity can help identify an infestation before it gets too large. |
Treatments
Termite treatments typically involve either chemical or physical methods. Chemical treatments involve the use of insecticides that are applied to the soil around the foundation of a home, while physical treatments involve the use of baiting systems or physical barriers. Chemical treatments are the most common form of treatment and typically involve the use of either a liquid or foam insecticide that is applied to the soil. It is important to note that these chemical treatments can have long-term effects on the environment and should be used with caution. Baiting systems involve the use of wood or cardboard that is soaked in an insecticide and placed near the source of the infestation. These baits attract termites and the insecticide kills them. Physical barriers can also be installed around the perimeter of a home to prevent future infestations.
Professional Help
Identifying a termite infestation and getting rid of it requires professional help. A licensed exterminator can identify various types of termite infestations and provide effective treatment solutions. Extermination methods may include fumigation, liquid treatments, or baiting. Specialized equipment may be needed to remove termites from hard to reach places. These professionals will also provide advice on how to prevent future infestations.
Cost of Termite Control
Termite control can be a costly endeavor, depending on the size of the infestation and the selected method of extermination. Chemical treatments can range from $250 – $2000, while bait systems may cost from $800 to $2000. Heat treatments can cost even more, ranging from $1700 to $3500. If the infestation is extensive and requires extensive remediation, the cost could be up to $5000 or more. Additionally, most pest control companies charge an initial inspection fee, ranging from $50 – $200.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Causes of Getting Termites in Your Home?
Termites are attracted to moist, dark, and warm environments. Common causes of having termites in your home include: wood-to-ground contact, cracks or crevices in the foundation, water damaged wood, and standing water near the house. Additionally, having wood debris or firewood stored near the house, or a previous infestation can attract termites.
How can you prevent termites from entering your house?
To prevent termites from entering your house, you should maintain a dry environment around your home and seal any cracks or crevices where they may be able to enter. Remove any dead wood or debris from around the house and keep gutters clear of debris. Ensure that there are no cracks in the foundation and seal any gaps around pipes or wires. Reduce wood-to-soil contact by raising wood piles, decks, and porches off the ground. Finally, keep the soil around the foundation of the house dry and free of standing water.
What type of environment is attractive to termites?
Termites are attracted to warm and humid environments, so they are often found in basements, attics, and crawlspaces. They also prefer moist wood, such as decomposing trees, wooden structures, and wood piles. To prevent termites, homeowners must keep their home and property dry and well-ventilated. Additionally, they should inspect their home for any signs of termite activity, such as mud tubes or winged termites.
What Signs Should You Look For to Determine if You Have a Termite Infestation?
Discarded wings from swarmers, mud tubes on the walls or foundation, clicking or tapping noises coming from the walls, or signs of damage to wood support beams or flooring are all indicators of a termite infestation. Other clues include small pinholes in walls, sagging or buckling doors or windows, and buckling paint on walls.
What alternatives are available to eliminate termites from your home?
The best way to eliminate termites from your home is by hiring a professional pest control company to perform a thorough inspection and apply specialized treatments. Other alternatives include baiting systems, liquid termiticides, and self-applied insecticides. Additionally, making sure your home is free of moisture and wood debris is key in preventing future infestations.
Conclusion
A termite infestation can cause serious damage to your home and property if not treated promptly. By identifying the common causes of termite infestations and taking proactive steps to protect your home, you can help prevent a termite infestation from occurring in the first place. Regular inspections, proper maintenance of your home and yard, and proper pest control are all important steps in preventing a termite infestation.
