Termites

Termite Identification

Termites are sometimes confused with ants. The best way to determine termite vs. ant is to look at the pest’s abdomen. If the abdomen is made up of two distinct segments, it is likely an ant. However, a wider abdomen, a white appearance, or a flying ant-like pest generally signifies a termite problem.

Termite Eating Habits

Termites are notorious for their wood-eating habit, and can do great damage to unprotected buildings and wooden structures. However, once they enter a building, they are after much more than wood – paper, cloth, and carpets are all fair game.

Termite Weakness

For as much damage as termites are responsible for, they are actually weak and relatively fragile insects for one major reason – they need to stay moist to survive. They can be quickly overpowered by ants and other predators when exposed to a dry environment.

Termite Detection

To avoid exposure, termites create “mud tunnels” made up of feces, plant matter, saliva and soil to keep themselves concealed. Not only do mud tunnels offer protection, they also make it very difficult for people to detect evidence of any damage – until the damage is already done.

Many termite infestations actually go undetected for up to years at a time, or until there is noticeable damage to building structures including:

• Damage to wooden furniture including cabinets, tables, and chairs
• Sagging floors/buckling wood
• Swollen floors or ceilings
• Decayed, loose, or cracked plaster

If you notice any of the above signs, contact our trained Pest Control Technicians. After assessing the severity of the infestation, our technicians will create a chemical barrier to both control the existing infestation and prevent new termites from entering.