Termites

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites live underground and build mud-tube tunnels to reach food sources. Like other termite species, they feed on wood and other products containing cellulose. Swarming in the spring, groups of the winged, reproductive subterranean termites will fly off to start new colonies.

Subterranean termites need contact with the soil to survive and thrive underground, which is why they build their distinctive mud tubes to gain access to food sources and to protect their colonies from the open air. These industrious termites can even build tunnels through cracks in the concrete that are at least the width of a business card.

How to Avoid Subterranean Termites

There are steps you can take to prevent a termite infestation, including:

• Avoid water accumulation near your home’s foundation. Divert water away with properly functioning downspouts, gutters, and splash blocks.
• Reduce humidity in crawl spaces with proper ventilation.
• Never bury wood scraps or waste lumber in the yard.
• Eliminate wood contact with the soil. Maintain a six-inch gap between the soil and wood portions of the building.

Getting Rid of Termites

Termites are sneaky creatures – it is often the case that homeowners may not notice termites until the damage has progressed to a significant level. This is why we encourage homeowners to check regularly for termites for early intervention.

Worried you might have termites? Keep an eye out for these signs of termite infestations:

• Cracked or bubbling paint
• Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
• Tubes of mud on your walls or in your crawl spaces
• Swarming insects in your home or in your yard