When you think of the most destructive thing that could happen to your property, you might imagine fire or flooding. Maybe you think of damage from smoke or rambunctious living. But the most devastating destruction that can happen on your property often occurs without you even realizing it.
Termites are responsible for billions of dollars in property damage every year in the United States. These tiny insects have a huge appetite, and over time they can completely destroy your home or business. So, if you’ve been wondering about termites in Modesto, here’s everything you need to know.
What To Know About Termites
There are over forty known species of termites in the U.S. that can be separated into three categories: subterranean termites, drywood termites, and dampwood termites.
Like ants and bees, they are social insects with a rigid caste system in which certain types of termites have certain roles (queen, soldier, worker, etc.). Depending on the species, termites can measure anywhere from 1/8 inch to one inch in length and can vary in coloration from pale white to dark brown.
Termites feed on cellulose-rich material found in plants, which is why they eat wood. Subterranean termites reside underground and connect their colonies to buildings using long mud tubes. Dampwood termites prefer the comfort of wet rotting wood for their habitat, and drywood termites are fond of the dry wooden structures that compose your home.
A termite queen can produce a staggering 30,000 eggs per day, and because of this prodigious breeding rate, many termite colonies number into the millions. When a colony reaches peak size, winged reproductive termites known as alates or “swarmers” are sent out to breed and form new colonies of their own — sometimes in close proximity to their home colony. In fact, if you see swarmers, it’s probably a sign of an existing termite colony nearby. And the more termites on your property, the more devastating the damage.
Is It Bad To Live In A House With Termites?
Unlike many common pests, termites are not known to spread disease and are actually very hygienic insects. But they can cause allergies as infestation develops.
As they eat up your home, termites leave behind microscopic particles of waste that can accumulate over time. These tiny particles can irritate eyes and skin as well as the lungs, inhibiting respiratory functions. In severe infestations, some individuals may even develop asthma as a result of termite activity.
How To Prevent Termites
The most critical step to dealing with a termite infestation is to prevent it from happening in the first place. There are a few warning signs that you can look out for:
- Flying termite swarmers gathering
- “Termite tubes” made of mud running along your foundation
- Bubbling paint or wallpaper that resembles water damage
- Maze-like patterns appearing in wooden structures
If you see any of these signs, it’s time to consider some termite prevention methods. Try some of the following:
- Address moisture issues – Check your property for any leaking pipes or fixtures as well as clogged drains or gutters. Wet soil and excess moisture are attractive to termites and make your property more appealing for infestation.
- Remove yard debris – Make sure that there are no fallen trees, logs, or other organic debris on your property. Store firewood away from the property if possible.
- Don’t let wood touch soil – Establish a barrier of gravel or stones around the perimeter of your home to prevent wooden segments from touching the soil.
- Get to gardening – Consider pulling any gardens, shrubs, or landscaping features back a few feet. Switch to a cellulose-free mulch.
Termites are nearly impossible to get rid of on your own. That’s why the best thing you can do to deal with termites on your Modesto property is to get in touch with the experts at Peace of Mind Pest Control. We will identify your termite problem and eliminate it at the source. Call us today to schedule your free inspection.
