Understanding subterranean termites
Thanks to their large colonies and relentless foraging habits, Subterranean termites are some of the most destructive termite species. They live underground in moist soil and build hidden tunnels to access food sources—mainly wood and other cellulose materials.
Key characteristics of subterranean termites
- Colony structure: A colony includes worker termites, soldiers, and reproductive members (king, queen, and swarmers). Workers gather food and build tunnels while soldiers defend the nest.
- Habitat: These insects thrive in damp environments. They construct mud tubes to travel safely between their nests and food sources.
- Feeding habits: They eat wood from the inside out, often leaving only a thin outer shell intact.
How to prevent a termite infestation
Preventing termites and termite damage is much easier than dealing with an active infestation. With that in mind, here’s how you can protect your home:
Control moisture around your home
Subterranean termites need moisture to survive, so reducing excess moisture can help keep them away and prevent property damage:
- Fix leaks: Repair any dripping faucets, pipes, or air conditioning units.
- Improve drainage: Make sure water drains away from your home’s foundation.
- Reduce humidity: Use dehumidifiers in crawl spaces or basements.
Eliminate wood-to-ground contact
These pests see wood as both a meal and a pathway into your home:
- Store wood properly: Keep firewood, lumber, and paper away from your foundation.
- Use treated lumber: Choose treated wood for decks, fences, and other outdoor structures.
Sign up for professional termite control
The sooner you catch termites, the better. Stay vigilant with:
- Professional inspections: Experts can spot early signs of termites that most homeowners miss.
- Proactive termite protection: A professionally installed proactive termite baiting system stops infestations before they begin by targeting termites at the source.
Signs of a termite infestation
Spotting the warning signs early can save you thousands in repairs. Here’s what to watch for:
- Mud shelter tubes – Thin, dirt-colored tunnels on your home’s foundation or walls.
- Hollow-sounding wood—If you knock on wooden structures and hear a dull, hollow sound, it may be termite-infested wood.
- Swarmers & discarded wings – Winged termites leave mature colonies in a swarm during mating season to start new colonies. Finding their discarded wings near windows or doors signals a nearby infestation.
- Live termites – Spotting white ants is a red flag; these are likely termites, not ants, and could signal an infestation.
How Termio helps property owners eliminate termites
Think you might have termites? Want to prevent an infestation before it starts? Termio has you covered with expert solutions:
Comprehensive termite inspections
Our trained professionals use advanced tools like moisture meters and infrared cameras to detect hidden termite activity.
Effective termite treatments
We offer customized termite treatments, including baiting systems, to eliminate colonies and protect your home.
Termite re-treatment warranty
Our termite control services include a re-treatment warranty. If termites return at any point during the warranty period, we’ll come back out to re-treat. We’ll also schedule and perform a yearly home inspection to ensure no lapse in your termite warranty.
Don’t wait—get termite protection now!
If you’re looking for termite control in the Phoenix metro area, contact Termio Pest Control immediately. Our team will protect your structure from these wood-destroying insects.
