Subterranean Termite Damage

And Why Do Termites Eat Wood?

Classified as either subterranean, dry wood, or damp wood, termites are identified by the different types of environments they inhabit. Due to diverse nesting habits of termites, the damage caused by the wood-eating insects tends to vary according to the particular type of species. Subterranean termites primarily live in the soil but often emerge to forage above ground. The subterranean termite species attack wood structures located at or near ground level. Consequently, wood damage typically remains confined to the lower level of the home.

Damage Can Be a Sign of Termite Infestation

Picture showing what subterranean termite damage looks like

Though sometimes difficult to locate, termite wood damage generally indicates the presence of a nearby infestation. Ranging in size from a few thousand to millions, termite colonies are capable of simultaneously infesting multiple homes or buildings located within close proximity of each other. Researchers estimate that an especially large termite infestation can consume more than a pound of wood each day. In fact, termites cause billions of dollars in damage across the United States every year. Upon discovering termite damage, homeowners should contact a HomeTeam professional to determine the location and size of the infestation in order to implement an effective solution.

Why Termites Eat Wood

The main source of nutrients in the diet of termites is cellulose. A complex sugar molecule and the main component of plant cell walls, cellulose gives wood structural strength. Termites use mandibles to tear off tiny chunks of wood to ingest and store in the gut. Incapable of breaking down cellulose without aid, termites benefit from a symbiotic relationship with various species of protozoa and microorganisms which live in the stomachs of the termites. Once the cellulose is broken down and digested, the resulting biomass (a substance known as humus) helps replenish the fertility of the soil. Wood already in the process of decay due to the presence of fungi produces an odor that is attractive to termites.

Though termites most commonly consume wood, any kind of plant matter supplies the pests with appropriate nourishment. The diet of a termite includes roots, mulch, paper, cardboard, cotton, burlap, and the occasional fruit or nut. Additionally, termites require large amounts of moisture, and soil is the main water source. Consequently, subterranean termites often invade homes and other buildings from the base of the structure where soil is plentiful. As the pests tunnel and explore a building, defective plumbing, leaky roofs, leaky air conditioning systems, and poorly maintained gutters provide the necessary moisture for the continued survival of termites.


Schedule Service Now

HomeTeam Pest Defense Service Vehicle Image

Start protecting your home today. Enter your zip code to find the HomeTeam location servicing your area.

Three Easy steps

to comfort and confidence

Trained HomeTeam technicians apply borate-based termiticides during the building process to create a long lasting pest barrier.
After the application has dried, all treated wood can be used normally, as the durable termiticide is saturated within.
Since our borate-based termiticide is highly efficient less is required for effective treatment and protection.

Just a part of
our full suite of
pest and termite control services

Wood treatment for termites is only the beginning. HomeTeam brings a nationwide network of expertise in every area of pest and termite control to ensure that every home we treat remains secure, comfortable and free from unwanted pests of all kinds. HomeTeam delivers great value, ultimate professionalism and in-depth knowledge all dedicated to making every house we service a secure, comfortable family home.

eBugBites

Sign up for our e-newsletters for helpful tips, discounts, and promotions!

Top Problem Pests


Centipedes

Easy to identify by their wormlike bodies, slender antennae and pairs of legs on most of their body segments.

Have your own problem pest?

Browse our Pest FAQs or search now.

Schedule Service Now

Start protecting your home today. Enter your zip code to find the HomeTeam location servicing your area.

eBugBites

Sign up for our e-newsletters for helpful tips, discounts, and promotions!

What is Taexx?

*Installation method is customized to construction types, and may vary.


Visit the full HomeTeam Pest Defense Video Library»

×
Schedule a Service

Picture of a HomeTeam Pest Defense Service Vehicle

Schedule an appointment today. Enter your zip code to find the HomeTeam location servicing your area.

×
×
×
×
×
×

Would you like to call 844.372.7552?

×

Would you like to call 844.372.7553?

×

Would you like to call 844.372.7558?

×

Would you like to call 520-462-9743?

×

Would you like to call 844-574-1560?

×

Would you like to call 844-372-7552?

×
States
×

Location Finder

×
  • Get a free Termite brochure

    All Fields Are Required
×