Termites

Common Termites

FAQs

Termites are beneficial to the environment because they break down dead trees and other plant material into substances useful to plants, but they certainly aren’t beneficial to you in your house! Many species of termites cause considerable damage to homes, furniture, and other structures, such as wood fences.

What’s worse, their destruction generally isn’t covered by most homeowners’ insurance.

Subterranean termites nest in the ground and burrow into wood, usually fallen trees and stumps. They enter the wood of buildings where it comes into contact with the ground or they get in via tunnels through cracks in the foundation.

SIGNS OF TERMITES INCLUDE:

A temporary swarm of winged insects around your home
Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
Mud tubes on exterior walls, wooden beams or crawl spaces
Discarded wings from swarmers

HomeTeam offers pre and post construction termite protection for homes and some buildings. See our termite control pages for more information.

WHAT ARE THE MUD TUNNELS/TUBES AROUND MY HOUSE?

Depending on their size, it could be termites. Subterranean termites use mud tubes or shelters for protection and to reach cellulose material above the ground. The tunnels are constructed with particles of soil, wood, debris and termite secretions. They construct these mud tubes as they travel through the dirt. If you spot these in and around your house, you should call a professional for a termite inspection.

HOW MANY KINDS OF TERMITES EXIST?

There are over 2,300 species of termites worldwide and about 20 species are pests of structures. Subterranean termites are the most widespread and destructive.

WHAT CAN I DO TO REDUCE THE CHANCE OF TERMITES SETTING UP HOME AROUND MY HOUSE?

Termites thrive on cellulose material. Earth to wood contact provides them with food, moisture, shelter AND a direct way into your home. Wood debris should be removed. Old stumps, form boards and scrap lumber are very conducive to termites. Moisture is one of the most important factors in where termites occur around structures. Poor ventilation in crawlspaces can increase the humidity under a structure making it more susceptible to termite infestations.

CONDUCIVE CONDITIONS FOR TERMITES INCLUDE:

Leaking faucet or pipes
Grade slope toward the structure
Clogged gutters or down spouts
Firewood stacked against or near structure
Lawn sprinklers spraying water on structures
Earth to wood contact
Construction foam boards against the foundation
Exterior siding below grade
Wood deck or fence attached to the structure
Excessive mulch against structures

WHAT DO TERMITES LOOK LIKE? HOW CAN I TELL THEM APART FROM ANTS?

Determining the difference between an ant and a termite can be confusing. Termites have straight bead-like antennae. Ants have elbowed antennae. Termites have a broad waist while an ant’s waist is constricted. The wings of termites are equal in size. An ant has larger front wings than its hind wings.

Contact the branch office nearest you to find out how you can help control termites in your yard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Insect & Pest Control Information, Facts and FAQ