Termite Identification & Prevention

What are termites?

One of the most damaging pests to invade our homes and businesses is the termite. Termites feed on wood causing damage to the structure of buildings, making them every property owner's worst nightmare! Termites cause billions of dollars in damages each year, and most homeowners' insurance does not cover the cost of repairs.

Two of the most common types of termites living in our area are the drywood termite and the subterranean termite. As their name suggests, drywood termites prefer to feed on wood that is sound and has not been damaged by water. On the other hand, subterranean termites live under the ground and prefer to feed on wood that has been previously damaged by water or are in some state of decay.

Are termites dangerous?

Termites rarely come into contact with people and therefore aren't dangerous due to health risks. The termite's ability to enter into a structure and work for months or years unseen is why these pests are considered so dangerous!

One of the most common ways homeowners discover the presence of termites is a termite swarm. Termites swarm from a mature colony, usually in the spring. Spotting flying termites or piles of their shed wings in or around your home is a sure sign that a termite colony is nearby. At the first sign of a termite infestation, contact a professional for help.

Why do I have a termites problem?

Subterranean termites are moisture seeking pests and won't hesitate to make themselves at home on any property with damp soil and plenty of wood and other plant materials to feed on. Often the presence of termites in or around your home is an indicator of an underlying moisture problem that you also need to address.

Subterranean termites become a problem for homeowners after finding their way inside while foraging for food. They enter inside through tiny cracks and crevices in the foundation or through pieces of wood, making direct contact with the ground.

Drywood termites prefer dry pieces of wood and therefore aren't attracted to a property because of moisture. Drywood termites get inside homes and other buildings through pieces of wood or wood furniture already infested with them.

Where will I find termites?

Subterranean termites do not live within the pieces of wood they are feeding on. The workers travel back and forth from their underground nest to the wooden structures they are feeding on each day. They feed on wood found behind walls or under floors, eventually moving to wood located above ceilings.

In contrast, drywood termites do nest within the wooden structures they feed on. Drywood termites live in much smaller colonies than subterranean termites but are much more efficient feeders. They live in things like wooden beams, antique furniture, wood framing, and even picture frames.

How do I get rid of termites?

The first step you should take to get rid of termites from your property is to contact a professional. At Admiral Pest Control, our professionals know the steps needed to eliminate termites and prevent a re-infestation.

We are our area's oldest family-run pest control company, and we take care of all our customers as if they are part of our family. If you are looking to rid your southern Los Angeles County or Orange County residential or commercial property of pests, reach out to the friendly and knowledgeable professionals at Admiral Pest Control. Call us today to learn more about our termite control services!

How can I prevent termites in the future?

Termites and other pests are difficult to prevent, so the best prevention tip is always to partner with a trained and experienced professional. Also, use the following tips from Admiral Pest Control to help avoid problems with termites:

• Get rid of excess leaf piles, decaying wood mulch, fallen trees, and tree stumps from your yard that could act as food sources for hungry termites.
• Subterranean termites are attracted to moisture. Eliminate as much moisture from your property as possible by fixing leaky pipes and keeping shrubbery cut back from your home's exterior walls and foundation.
• Keep gutters clear to stop water from spilling over and leaking into your home's walls.
• Create a crushed rock barrier of at least 12-18 inches between the foundation and any soil or mulch.
• Don't overwater lawn or garden areas.
• Use exhaust fans, dehumidifiers, and air conditioners to lower humidity levels in your home.
• Keep crawlspaces well-ventilated and free of wood debris.
• Inspect newly purchased furniture, structural wood, and other wooden items for signs of termite damage before bringing them inside of your home.