Subterranean Termite Identification

What are subterranean termites?

Subterranean termites build their nests under the ground, and the colony's workers emerge from the nest each day to find and gather food to bring back to the nest. These unique insects are one of the few creatures that can convert cellulose into a usable food source. The subterranean termite's diet is composed of cellulose that they gather from wood and other plant matter. In nature, their feeding habits help speed up the decay process and return nutrients to the earth to support new tree and plant growth. When subterranean termites move from areas uninhabited by people to our yards and homes, they become destructive unwanted pests. 

Are subterranean termites dangerous?

There is no arguing that termites are an important part of the ecosystem, but there is also no arguing that when in our yards and homes, they are pests that cause costly damage to our structures. 

Though tiny in size, when working together, termites can cause unmatched damage. In fact, across the United States, they cause more than five billion dollars in damages each year. Damages that most homeowners' insurance doesn't cover, leaving the repair costs solely up to you. Subterranean termites pose no danger to people, but they do pose a significant threat to the structures of our homes and businesses. 

Why do I have a subterranean termite problem?

Subterranean termites are unique because they are pests we don't see moving around our yards and homes. Many pests make their presence well known in our gardens, yards, and inside our houses. Subterranean termites are called "silent invaders" because they move onto our properties without us noticing. Living underground and feeding on the inside of wood means that these pests can go unnoticed for months or years.

In Florida, subterranean termites are a year-round threat. Our humid, warm weather provides the perfect environment for these pests to thrive. Subterranean termites are most problematic in yards and homes that have an underlying moisture issue. These termites have high moisture needs and prefer to feed on decaying wood. 

Where will I find subterranean termites?

You'll generally find subterranean termites entering our homes through cracks they discover in the foundation or through pieces of wood on your house that touch the ground. Subterranean termites move unseen through the soil or through mud tubes that they build.

When subterranean termites are in our homes, they invade structural wood behind walls, under floors, and above ceilings. The wood located near windows, doors, tubs, and sinks has a greater chance of being damaged by water and invaded by hungry termites.

How do I get rid of subterranean termites?

A subterranean termite infestation needs to be handled by a local and experienced professional. At Empire Pest Defense, our professionals know the habits and behaviors of subterranean termites. We will eliminate destructive termites from your property through detailed inspections, effective treatments, and ongoing services.

Empire Pest Defense is committed to the West Palm Beach community and dedicated to providing our customers with nothing but top-notch pest control services. All of our highly trained technicians are licensed, insured, and qualified to meet the unique pest control needs of our Florida home and business owners. Call today and learn more about our termite control services and how they will eliminate subterranean termites from your property once and for all!

How can I prevent subterranean termites in the future?

Avoid problems with subterranean termites with the help of the professionals at Empire Pest Defense, our effective termite control solutions, and our practical prevention tips listed below.

• Take the time to address moisture issues. Repair leaky pipes and air conditioners, replace broken gutters, and fix any drainage issues you may have.

• Remove rotting wood or decaying wooden structures from your property.

• Clear your yard of leaf piles and other yard debris.

• If any wood in your home becomes damaged by water, swiftly replace it with sound wood.

• Create a barrier between any mulch or soil and your foundation.

• Help keep termites out of your house by repairing cracks and gaps in your foundation or exterior walls.