subterranean termite colonies
In just one acre of land, you can find up to 14 colonies of termites. This means a single house could feasibly be infested by 3-4 colonies at once. Each subterranean colony can contain up to 1,000,000 workers, which is a huge threat to homeowners. These colonies tend to nest underground in soil where is it dark, damp, and cool. When exposed to air, their bodies tend to dry out quickly so they must remain in damp places. They also rely on wood for sustenance. Constantly seeking wood and moisture, it has been said that no obstacle can keep subterranean termites from entering a home.
wood-to-ground contact
The most common way subterranean termites get into a home is through earth-to-wood contact. When wood from a home is in direct contact with the soil, termites are able to enter the house quite easily. Examples of common entry points include door frames, porches, decks, and supports.
mud tubes
To connect their colonies underground to a home, subterranean termites create mud tunnels. Made from a combination of wood, soil, and termite saliva, these tunnels serve to protect termites on their journey into a home by retaining moisture. Measuring between ¼ and 1 inch, these working mud tunnels are built to last, making it easy for termites to access wood to eat. These tunnels can be seen around window sills, underneath porches, under floors, around window frames, and along the foundation of a home.
other points of entry
As mentioned before, no obstacle can keep a termite from entering a home and eating away at its wooden structure. As tiny creatures, they can enter a home through a gap that is as small as 1/32nd of an inch. While they cannot eat through cement, subterranean termites have been known to construct their mud tunnels through cracks in cement until they reach wood in a home. They are also known to make their way through bricks, slabs, chimneys, sidewalks, and siding.
call proof. pest control today!
At proof. pest control, our service professionals have extensive experience eliminating dampwood, drywood, and subterranean termite colonies from homes. Using botanically-derived, earth-conscious products, we locate and treat termite colonies to prevent serious damage to your house and prevent future invasions. To make sure your home is protected all year long from costly, damaging termite invasions, you need our pest control team on your side.
Call or contact us online to learn more about our pest control services. We look forward to taking care of your home!
Categories