Termites Extermination

The Subterranean termite will have colonies in the ground, building vertical tunnels that look like mud tubes above ground level so that they can search for food. Subterranean termites can form tunnels through cracks in concrete, so slab homes are not exempt from these termites. Subterranean termites will die if exposed to air for an extended period of time; tunnels are used for transporting the food to the nest and protecting themselves. They need to stay in contact with the soil in order to survive as opposed to the Drywood termite that only needs low moisture. Drywood termites are more prevalent in the coastal regions. They may be carried in furniture from one region to another. Drywood termites are found many times in the attic wood structure.

Refer to our section on ants to determine the major difference between ant appearance and termite appearance.

SIGNS OF INFESTATION MAY INCLUDE:

1. Mud like tunnels, usually vertical, among the foundation of the interior or exterior walls.
2. Termite wings.
3. "Swarmers" or flying termites appearing in the house, particularly near light sources.

SUBTERRANEAN TERMITE APPEARANCE:

1. Worker: wingless, light colored, 1/8 inch long.
2. Soldier: the head is elongated with mandibles.
3. Supplementary Reproductives: light colored with no wings or very short.
4. Primary Reproductives: most often seen, winged, and darker than the other three castes. These are also called "swarmers".

DRYWOOD TERMITE APPEARANCE:

These termites are larger (up to 1/2 inch long) than the Subterranean termite.

DIET:

Their diet is wood and other cellulose material, such as paper, cardboard, etc.