Bugs are small, unwelcome little critters that can take over your space in a matter of seconds. Now, imagine your home is infested with an invisible colony of bugs. Isn’t that your worst nightmare? Well, your worst nightmare can become a reality–subterranean termites exist! Subterranean termites are not invisible to the human eye like we would assume. However, their name suits them as they choose to live in “subterranean” conditions or out of sight of most humans. These termites are a part of the Rhinotermitidae family and are attracted to the shelter your home offers. In the eyes of these pests, your home is a five-star hotel! These pests can do disastrous damage in the blink of an eye. So, it is incredibly important that you stay aware of their habits and how you can eradicate them from your home. Keep reading to rid yourself of these beady-eyed bugs!
Where does a subterranean termite dwell?
Subterranean termites are not too picky about their living conditions. You can find subterranean termites in every part of the United States, except for Alaska. So, if you think you can outrun these termites, you’d be wrong! Subterranean termites also happen to be the most common species of termite found in Texas. In the outside world, subterranean termites typically prefer to snuggle into moist soil. So, as long as there is a drop of water in the ground near your home, you are susceptible to a termite infestation. Furthermore, subterranean termites do not hibernate, so you will never catch a break from their persistent, pesky ways.
Thus far, we have only discussed where subterranean termites like to live outside your home. Now it is time to discuss the places you could likely find these pests within your home. Subterranean termites are likely to dwell in parts made of wood. This includes door frames, baseboards, wooden banisters, and even stairs. Lumber is their main source of food, so this preferred habitat makes sense! You could also potentially find these pests near your attic or window sills. These locations are likely where these pests entered your home, and sometimes they choose to stay near their entryway. Overall, checking your home frequently, especially in these locations, is the best way to catch these pests.
What can I do to prevent an infestation?
As we discussed above, subterranean termites enjoy moist areas. They’ll dwell in almost any moist area they can find. Within your home, subterranean termites will choose to live in the areas where humidity is the highest. These areas are typically surrounded by leaking pipes, drainage issues, and bad airflow. So, the easiest way to prevent a subterranean termite infestation is by ensuring that you do not have any leaking pipes, that your drainage system is in tip-top shape, and that your ventilation is intact. Subterranean termites can take over in the blink of an eye, and it is easy to lose track of household upkeep in the thralls of daily life. Our best recommendation is to inspect your home often and to keep moisture as low as possible.
Do you have a subterranean termite infestation?
Subterranean termites are a hassle. They infest your home, gnaw through your framing, and leave nothing but expensive repairs in their wake. You definitely don’t want a termite infestation. But, what if your home has already been taken over by termites and you didn’t notice? The biggest telltale signs of a termite infestation include
- Sawdust droppings
- Termite tubes
- Wings
Sawdust droppings
are one of the easiest ways to tell you have a problem. Subterranean termites’ droppings look like piles of sawdust. Typically, these creatures leave their droppings near their nest. So, if you find a pile of droppings, you’ll find their nest!
Termite Tubes
are yet another tell-tale sign of subterranean termites. Termite Tubes are hollow tubes made of mud and other minuscule materials that subterranean termites use to hide from the outside world. These tubes are their way of travel. So, if you see these tubes on the exterior of your home, you likely have an infestation inside your home. On rare occasions, these termites will even make these tunnels inside your home!
Subterranean Termite Wings
can be left behind by subterranean termite swarmers once they have found their new home. Typically, these wings will be found near where they entered your property. So, if you find tiny wings without their little bodies, you could have a subterranean termite problem on your hands.
What can I do to remove these termites from my home?
A termite infestation is incredibly difficult to remedy on your own. The structural damage they cause can be quite costly to fix, and it can be incredibly difficult to access all of the places that need treatment (under your concrete slab). Therefore, we recommend calling in the experts! 855Bugs has extensive experience in eradicating and preventing termites from taking over your property. Every day left untreated is another day’s worth of damage. Call 855Bugs and schedule your appointment today!
