Eastern Subterranean Termites

• Appearance

  

  Swarmer: 3/8" dark brown body, with wings. The wigs will appear transparent to milky white.

• Habitat

  Termites eat material that contains cellulose, such as wood, roots, plant debris, paper or cardboard. Termites can gain entrance into a structure through any part of the wood frame in contact with the ground, through openings in the foundation around pipes and conduits or through cracks in the foundation. Termites can enter through cracks that are no wider than 1/64 of an inch. Subterranean termites require moisture to survive. They will create mud tubes to obtain access to a structure that is above ground. These tubes are created from soil cemented with secretions and fecal material. The tubes are to protect the termites from exposure to sunlight or dry conditions. Termites are able to survive in a structure without contact to the ground if there is a sufficient moisture source.

• How do they affect me?

  Termites will eat wood, destroying it. Termites cause over 2 billion dollars in property damage every year. Infestations that are ignored will lead to serious home damage, and in extreme cases, home have had to be destroyed.

• What should I do?

  Small steps make a big difference. Start by eliminating food and moisture conditions around your home. These simple steps will deter termites, making your home a less attractive target. Termites can be prevented by our guardian program, ultimate protection plan, and monitored by our Home Pest Prevention program with the termite indicator system. Read more about termites on our blog.