Subterranean Termites: What They Are and How to Deter Them

12 Dec Subterranean Termites: What They Are and How to Deter Them

Statistics indicate that approximately 600,000 U.S. homes suffer damage caused by termites annually. These pests are bad news for any property because they can cause significant structural damage and issues like swollen floors.

Fortunately, you can protect your home from these critters and the damage they cause. This article will introduce you to subterranean termites and the tips you can use to keep them away.

What Are Subterranean Termites?

Subterranean termites live in colonies that are subdivided into two different categories. The first contains worker termites that are cream-colored. The other category is soldier termites, which are also cream-colored but have brown heads and powerful mandibles.

These insects live in underground nests. They also excavate mud tunnels and use them to find and transport food. You’ll likely notice subterranean termites throughout the U.S., but they are more common in regions with warm weather, like California.

How Can You Protect Against Subterranean Termites?

The measures outlined below can help protect your home against subterranean termites.

1. Prevent Moisture Accumulation Near Your Home’s Foundation

Your home’s foundation needs functional drains to direct water away from the structure. Without these components, you may have poor drainage that results in moisture problems, especially after the rainy season. You cannot downplay this problem because it can lead to many issues, including compromised structural integrity and termite infestations.

Subterranean termites need moisture to keep their bodies intact. Plus, they find damp conditions conducive because they make materials like wood easier to digest. So, a foundation affected by poor drainage is a haven for these critters.

Several solutions can help you protect your home’s foundation from excess moisture. First, you can improve drainage using rain gutters and downspouts. Additionally, you can regrade your lawn and prevent water backup or use a sump pump to get rid of accumulated water.

2. Seal Gaps, Cracks, and Holes

Subterranean termite colonies have workers that forage for food. These insects leave their nest in search of nutrition sources and then use a trail of pheromones to find their way back home.

In their search for a food source, subterranean termites can use various access points to enter your premises, including gaps, holes, and cracks.

Sometimes, your home can settle unevenly. When that happens, gaps and cracks may form between walls and the floor or foundation. Furthermore, damage caused by doorknobs, nails, children, and animals can leave holes in your walls.

If you want to keep critters like subterranean termites away from your home, seal openings that can act as access points. Solutions like premixed joint compounds and caulk should help you to that end. Don’t forget to seal the entry points for pipes, conduits, and wires.

3. Eliminate Possible Food Sources

Subterranean termites primarily feast on cellulose, which is found in leaves, grass, cotton, wood, and other materials that come from plants.

With the above in mind, if you want to prevent termite infestation in and around your home, throw out possible food sources you don’t need. For instance, you can get rid of cardboard, books, or extra wood stored in crawlspaces.

Moreover, don’t keep tree stumps or firewood stacks near your home. That is important because such items attract subterranean termites. But eventually, these critters will find their way into your home.   

Contact the Experts

Have you noticed any signs of subterranean termite infestation on your property? Maybe you’ve encountered swarms, discarded wings, or unexplained wood damage. In any case, Eary Termite & Pest Services can help.

We are a pest control company that will help you eradicate critters like subterranean termites and ensure they stay away for a long time. Our team uses state-of-the-art pest control technology and never compromises on integrity. Contact us today for exceptional services in Chino, CA, and surrounding areas.