No one wants to find out they have termites. While most people know termites can be incredibly destructive, many people do not know much about them. At Red Coat Pest Solutions, we are your go-to termite experts. We know all there is to know about termites, we know how to protect your home from them and how to eradicate them.
We also believe education is your best weapon against termites. When you understand what makes termites tick, you are better equipped to keep them out of your home for good. Below we answer 5 frequently asked questions about termites, providing you with guidance on how to get rid of them once and for all. Keep reading to learn more!
#1: What Are the Different Types of Termites?
There are three different types of termites: dampwood termites, drywood termites, and subterranean termites. Within these categories, there are 2,000+ known species of termites across the world. Much as their name implies, dampwood termites are found in wet wood or wood with a high moisture content. Conversely, drywood termites prefer dry wood. Unlike subterranean termites, drywood and dampwood termites do not need soil in which to nest. Instead, they nest in the wood itself.
Subterranean termites build their colonies in the soil and tunnel to forage for food. In addition to tunneling, subterranean termites build mud tubes to help them get around above ground. Subterranean termite colonies can be exceptionally large and can have anywhere from 60,000 to 2,000,000 workers. This is also the most common termite found across the US and is responsible for the majority of termite-related structural damage. It is estimated, subterranean termites cause approximately $5 billion in property damage every year!
The most common species of termite found in Georgia is the Eastern subterranean termite. Formosan termites, a type of subterranean termite, have also been found in Georgia. Formosan are considered one of the most aggressive termites in the United States.
#2: What Attracts Termites to Your House?
Generally speaking, termites are attracted to wood and other cellulose materials. Everything from piles of firewood to wallpaper to newspaper is fair game for termites. While they will feed on nearly any type of wood, they are most often attracted to partially decomposed or decaying wood. They are also attracted to moisture and tend to build their nests in damp soil. This is why you often find subterranean termites building their colonies under or near the foundations of buildings. Not only do they have a dark, undisturbed location to build their nest, but they also have easy access to any wooden structures or foundations that come in contact with the soil.
#3: Why Are Termites So Hard to Get Rid Of?
Both the large size of termite colonies and their tendency to stay hidden, play a big part in why termites are difficult to eradicate. Termites can create a significant amount of damage before you even know they are present. Subterranean termites can stay hidden for years before a homeowner is aware of their presence. By then, their colonies can have grown to tens of thousands of members. Additionally, if they have been established for a long time, you may even be dealing with more than one termite colony on the same property. It is not uncommon to find two or three termite colonies under a single home, especially in Georgia.
#4: What Are the Signs You Have Termites?
When it comes to termites, the sooner you discover them, the easier it is to eradicate them. Living in Georgia, we are especially prone to termites because of our warm, humid climate. As a home or property owner, it is important to become familiar with the symptoms of a termite infestation. If you notice any of the following issues, you should reach out to our termite control specialists right away for help.
Signs you have termites include:
- Hollow sounding wood
- Warped door and window frames
- Warped wood flooring
- Pin-sized holes in wood or drywall
- Maze-like patterns in wood flooring, walls, or furniture
- Mud tubes around your foundations or on walls
- Piles of frass (termite droppings which look like little piles of dust)
- Discarded wings
Sometimes termites can be mistaken for flying ants. If you see something that looks like a flying ant, it is worth calling out our termite inspectors to ensure you do not have termites.
#5: How to Get Rid of Termites
The best way to get rid of a termite infestation is to work with a licensed, insured termite control specialist like Red Coat Pest Solutions. Our teams have the training and experience to care for your home as if it was our own.
When it comes to protecting your home proactively, Red Coat uses the most comprehensive termite baiting system available. Instead of baiting termites with wood lures, we use an activated bait that works to destroy termites and their colony from the first bite. This system is dark and discreet with a large below ground strike zone. It encourages termites to find and consume the bait quickly, immediately beginning the treatment.
Things The Homeowner Can Do to Prevent Termites
- Do your best to keep moisture from around your home. Check the drainage around your foundations and remove or divert any pooling water.
- Ensure your rain gutters and downspouts are all being directed away from your building.
- Keep sprinklers pointed away from your building.
- Keep your home and yard clear of piles of wood, especially decaying wood. If you have a woodpile, make sure the area is kept clean and dry. Additionally, woodpiles should be stored away from your home or other buildings.
- Protect your home with a termite baiting system from Red Coat! We perform an inspection 2 times a year just to make sure your home is protected!
To schedule a free termite inspection today, reach out to Red Coat Pest Solutions.