Eastern subterranean termites are among the most common and economically significant wood-destroying insects in North America. These tiny yet formidable pests can cause extensive damage to homes and structures if left unchecked. Let's dive into the world of these silent destroyers and learn how to protect your property from their relentless appetite.
What Are Eastern Subterranean Termites?
Eastern subterranean termites are social insects that live in large colonies, often numbering in the millions. They are known for their ability to consume cellulose-based materials, such as wood, paper, and cardboard. These termites are typically found in the eastern United States, but their range extends as far north as southern Ontario and as far west as Texas.
Identifying Eastern Subterranean Termites
Eastern subterranean termites have a distinct caste system, with each caste performing specific roles within the colony:
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Workers: Creamy white to grayish-white, wingless, and about 3 mm long. They forage for food, construct and repair shelter tubes, and care for the young.
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Soldiers: Wingless with large, rectangular, yellowish-brown heads and long black mandibles. Their primary function is to defend the colony from predators.
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Reproductives: Dark brown or black with wings. These termites are responsible for mating and establishing new colonies.
Signs of an Infestation
Detecting an eastern subterranean termite infestation early can save you from costly repairs. Here are some common signs to watch for:
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Mud Tubes: Termites build mud tubes to travel between their nest and food sources. These tubes protect them from predators and maintain moisture levels.
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Swarmers: Winged termites, or swarmers, emerge in large numbers during the spring to mate and establish new colonies. Finding discarded wings near windowsills or doorways is a sign of an infestation.
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Wood Damage: Termites consume wood from the inside out, leaving a thin veneer on the surface. Tap on wooden structures to check for hollow sounds, which may indicate termite activity.
Practical DIY Termite Prevention Tips
We recommend these following tips to prevent termites from entering and damaging your property.
- Use a caulking gun to fill in holes, gaps, and cracks around your home’s exterior.
- Make sure there is a non-wood barrier between exterior soil and your home’s structural wood.
- Address moisture issues in and around your home by fixing piping, repairing broken gutters, and using a dehumidifier.
- Repair or replace structural wood that is negatively affected by rot, decay, or water-damage.
- Store firewood and untreated lumber a good distance from your home’s exterior.
- Avoid using wood-based mulch on your property.
- Clean up sticks, leaves, and other wood-based debris from your yard.
- Remove dead stumps and fallen trees from your property.
How Do I Get Rid of Termites?
There is only one way to identify a termite infestation early and that is with industrial-grade pest control equipment. To make sure your home is termite-free, do not hesitate to contact the experts at EM Pest Control.
Our team has the tools, experience, and treatments needed to identify, prevent, and eliminate destructive termites. We would be happy to put these assets to use around your property. Call us today to schedule your home or business for a detailed service visit.
