Termites: The Silent Destroyer

What Kind of Termites Are You Dealing With?

Termites are the worst possible pests any home or business owner will have to deal with. Most of the time they are unnoticed as they cause damage to wooden structures on residential and commercial properties. Termites are responsible for billions of dollars in property damage across the United States every year.

Drywood Termites

Description: Drywood termites are primarily found in coastal regions where the climate provides the humidity they need. Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites live inside the wood they consume. They do not require contact with the soil and are capable of establishing colonies within wooden structures.

Identification: Drywood termites are generally larger than their subterranean counterparts. The soldiers have distinctive black heads compared to the yellow-orange heads of subterranean termites. Infestations are often first detected by finding discarded wings and fecal pellets, which appear as small, hard, and granular frass. Drywood termites also produce a characteristic, faintly audible "rustling" sound as they tunnel through wood.

Risks: Drywood termites are highly destructive as they can undermine wooden beams, floors, and furniture. Their damage is often concealed within the structure, leading to costly repairs when discovered. Regular inspections are crucial for early detection.

Prevention & Control: Drywood termite control involves localized treatments such as spot fumigation or injection of termiticides. Full structural fumigation may be necessary for severe infestations. Pestogone offers comprehensive drywood termite control solutions tailored to the severity of the infestation.

Eastern Subterranean Termites

Description: Eastern subterranean termites are prevalent throughout most of the United States, excluding the northernmost states. They thrive in soil and create extensive underground colonies that can number in the millions. These termites are known for their organized colony structure, which includes workers, soldiers, and reproductive members.

Identification: Eastern subterranean termites are identified by their creamy-white color and small size. Their colonies are marked by mud tubes that extend from the ground to the wooden structures they infest. These tubes protect them from predators and maintain moisture levels.

Risks: Subterranean termites are notorious for their destructive capacity, as they can undermine the foundation and structural integrity of buildings. Their colonies can be vast and hidden, making early detection challenging but crucial.

Prevention & Control: Effective control for subterranean termites includes treating the soil with termiticides, installing bait systems, and creating physical barriers. Regular inspections and professional treatment are essential to manage and prevent infestations.

Formosan Termites

Description: Formosan termites, often found in the Southern United States, are known for their aggressive and destructive nature. Sometimes referred to as "super-termites," they have a voracious appetite and can cause extensive damage rapidly.

Identification: Formosan termites are similar in appearance to other subterranean termites but are more robust and aggressive. They build large, complex colonies, often with multiple queens, which makes them particularly difficult to eradicate.

Risks: Formosan termites pose a severe threat due to their ability to destroy entire structures if left unchecked. They can compromise the structural integrity of buildings and are known for their rapid rate of damage.

Prevention & Control: Managing Formosan termites requires aggressive treatment strategies, including advanced baiting systems and comprehensive chemical treatments. Professional pest control services from Pestogone are essential for effective control and prevention.

How to Address Termite Infestations

Termite control is complex and varies depending on the type of termite and the extent of the infestation. At Pestogone, we offer a range of services designed to address termite problems comprehensively:

• Whole-Home Inspections: Thorough inspections to identify and assess the severity of termite infestations.
• Wood-Destroying Organism Reports: Detailed reports to understand the extent of damage and inform treatment plans.
• Subterranean Termite Control: Specialized treatments to manage and eliminate subterranean termites.
• Drywood Termite Control: Targeted treatments to address drywood termite infestations.
• Formosan Termite Control: Advanced strategies to control and eradicate Formosan termites.

For expert assistance and tailored solutions to protect your property from termites, contact the professionals at Pestogone today. Don’t let termites compromise the safety and value of your home or business—get in touch to learn more about our effective termite control options.