Termites

Eastern Subterranean Termites

The Eastern Subterranean Termite likes to form nests in nearby fallen trees, stumps, woodpiles, etc. and then work thier way into your home. They like common lumber woods like douglas fur and tend to leave a honeycomb structure within the wood. Queens are very large compared to the rest, live up to 25 years, and she can lay up to 2,000 eggs per day. This is a swarming termite so you may find them flying around in the springtime when they’re looking for mates and starting new colonies. 

Formosan Termites

Another species of subterranean termite, the formosan is considered to be the “super termite”. They are the most aggressive species and chew through everything from wood to wallpaper quickly and efficiently. They also form very large colonies of up to several million termites which compounds the damage. If these termites are not exterminated quickly, they can cause severe structural damage to homes and buildings. 

How Serious Is a Termite Problem? 

Termites cause serious damage to homes and buildings throughout the United States every year. In fact, it’s billions of dollars a year in damage. Due to the fact that they often slip into the structure underground and eat the wood from the inside out, they can go for several years undetected and, by the time they’re found, have caused major structural damage that’s costly to repair. Formosan termite colonies tend to be very large as well which can lead to serious damage in a much shorter amount of time. It’s important to note that insurance doesn’t cover termite damage either because its considered to be preventable. 

How Did I Get Termites?

You may have gotten termites several ways. If you have fallen trees nearby, stumps, or rotten wood anywhere near your home, they can and will often infest these. As the colony grows they’ll build tunnels underground and work their way to your home in search of more food. You may have also gotten them during the swarming season. While swarming, termites will fly around in search of another mate and to start a colony of thier own. They can work thier way into your home through the attic and any other small crevice that permits entry for them at this time. If your home hasn’t been treated for termites, it’s fair game to them. 

What Are The Signs Of a Termite Infestation?

Many subterranean termites will form tunnels underground to feed on your home and then make their way back to their nests through those tunnels at the end of the day. They may also form mud tubes in your house which are exactly like they sound – small tubes made of mud. They’re most often found running along the foor, up walls, and in basements. If you find these tubes, the termites have been there for a while and you have an infestation on your hands. In this case, get an inspection and treatment asap to prevent further structural damage.

Formosan termites may also form nests above ground. They create carton nests which are made from excrement, saliva, and discarded wood which can be found on roofs, in attics, and outdoors. If you don’t see mud tubes or carton nests, check around your yard for old stumps and fallen trees. Sometimes you can break open the rotten wood and find the light tan larvae which is a sure sign you have termites. 

How To Get Rid Of Termites

There is no at home DIY solution for termites so the best and only solution is to call a professional pest control company. Big Dave’s Termite & Pest Control has decades of experience in treating termites throughout Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston and the surrounding areas. We offer affordable and guaranteed termite treatments that will both eliminate the current problem and prevent future termite issues for several years following the treatment. Give us a call now to get a free, instant quote.