Given the recent surge in underground termite infestations, numerous individuals are curious about how to detect these pests.
When you suddenly find one of these insects on your property, it is important that you contact a professional so they can help you get rid of them as soon as possible.
In this article, we are going to talk about everything you must know about Subterranean termites so you can get rid of them for good.
P.S. For further information about termite control services, click here to know more!
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How to Identify Subterranean Termite
Not many people are aware of this, but termites actually have different types. The most common type of termite is the subterranean one.
They live underground and in tree trunks, and they can cause a lot of damage to your property if you don’t get rid of them quickly!
These type of termites is the worst kind you can have invading your property because they are much more difficult to identify and they do a lot more damage.
If you want to know how to spot Subterranean termites, here are some of the things that will help:
- Subterranean termites unlike other termites can be found with their wings on their body.
- They generally do not swarm, but when they do, it is usually during the hours of dawn and dusk.
- Subterranean termites are colored brown or black, and they are typically about one-half inch long.
- Subterranean termites usually live in moist and dark places.
- You will find them under decks, porches, patios, and walkways or they can be seen coming out of cracks around doors and windows!
Signs of Subterranean Termite
It can be hard to determine if you’re really dealing with subterranean termites, but fortunately, there are several ways you can identify the presence of these annoying creatures. By taking note of the following signs, you can determine whether or not subterranean termites are in your home.
Termite Wings In Your Property
If you start seeing some discarded wings right around your property, then you might be dealing with subterranean termites. Termite wings are often left behind as the insects travel from one place to another.
These discarded wings, which resemble small pieces of paper, can be found in places such as porches and sidewalks nearby your house.
When you start to notice this, you need to call in a professional right away before the problem worsens or spreads.
Mud Tubes Caused By Termites
Mud tubes are the most common sign of termites. These tubes are made of mud and are constructed by termites as they construct long tunnels close to or inside of your property.
Mud tubes can be seen entering through cracks in the foundation, planks near windowsills, gaps between slats on a deck, holes around plumbing fixtures such as drains and pipes – anywhere there is an opening for them to enter.
Termites construct mud tubes to protect themselves from predators and to transport food back to their colonies.
Peeling or Bubbling Paint Due to Termites
If you suddenly start to notice your wall’s paint is bubbling or peeling, you may have an infestation of termites. This is also a common sign for subterranean termite species.
The way to test this out is by using a screwdriver and scraping the paint near where it’s bubbled up or has peeled away from the wood.
If you see any signs of wriggling or dark brown mud and dirt, then you have a termite infestation.
The reason for bubbling paint is because termites tend to chew through the wood in order to get to the cellulose, which is their food.
The paint provides a protective barrier between the termites and your wall so that they cannot chew away at it easily.
When this layer of protection disappears due to bubbling or peeling paint, then you have a clear sign of an infestation.
Termite Droppings Around Wood
Termite droppings resemble sawdust, and you can often find these near damaged wood.
A good way to identify them is by the tiny holes that they leave behind when they chew through a piece of wood, or if you see any sawdust-like substance around your basement flooring.
The droppings will be in clear sight and you may also notice a sweet smell coming from it as well due to sugar being digested from the wood.
This is an easy way to identify a termite infestation and you should take action immediately if this occurs on your property.
Conclusion
When it comes to understanding and identifying the nuances of subterranean termites, you need a professional who understands their habits and behaviors so you can effectively get rid of these pesky creatures.
Contact us today to set up an inspection or ask any questions that come up on your research journey towards being educated about these pests.