Subterranean Termites
Megan Pinneo
What are Subterranean Termites?
Subterranean Termites (Rhinotermitidae) is a family of termites. They are creamy white to dark brown/black in color, 1/8 inch long with a narrow, oval shaped body. Usually swarming in the Spring (March, April, May, and June) they can be found all throughout the U.S. Termites feed on wood and cellulose causing extensive damage to any wooden structure. Subterranean Termites build tunnels or “mud tubes” in order to protect themselves from open air and to reach their food sources. They will eat wood 24 hours a day 7 days a week and can cause thousands of dollars in damage.
What damage do Subterranean Termites cause?
The most destructive termites are the Subterranean Termites. Feeding on wood 24/7 their teeth work as shears to cut through wooden structures. Given enough time termites can destroy a structure entirely.
Damage caused by Subterranean Termites
Subterranean Termites can cause wood to buckle.
Swollen floor and ceilings.
Visible mazes appearing in the walls.
Areas that seem to look as they are suffering from water damage.
Infestations can also exude a similar sent of mildew.
Cause structures to collapse or start to crumble
Visible signs of Subterranean Termites
When wondering if you have a Termite Infestation there are several things that you can look for;
Mud Tubes - What resembles a mud like material forming different paths similar to a maze pattern. The “mud” is actually a mixture of soil, feces and saliva.
Swarmers - What looks like a gathering of “flying ants” usually near a light source. This happens when a colony reaches a certain size, indicating that there is a nest near by. Looking to establish a new colony this is most common in the Spring months.
Piles of wings. Termites shed their wings when entering their next phase of development.
Tiny holes in wood.
Buckling paint.
Subterranean
Mud Tubes
Subterranean Termites and Mud Tubes
Subterranean Termite Infestation
After doing some research and coming across several signs of Subterranean Termites are you wondering what to do next? You may have some questions and some worries as to what damage the termites may have caused. After all how long have they been chomping at your wood structure unnoticed? The best thing to do is to call in a Professional Termite Inspector to conduct a thorough inspection of the structure. From there they would be able to pinpoint what is going on and the extent of the damage. Hopefully the infestation has been caught early on and there is light treatment that needs to be preformed. After the inspection done by a professional if the damage is more severe there will be a recommendation on what work needs to be done to the structure to not only get rid of the existing termites, but to repair the structure and the damage that has been caused. Most times wood will have to be removed and replaced. Black Knight Termite and Pest Control can take care of your termite needs from start to finish. Black Knight has licensed Termite Instructors to conduct a full and accurate inspection as well as give a complete report of the damages. If there is work that has been called out Black Knight Termite has a full service crew to complete the work as well. Need it done fast? Black Knight can handle it all, from start to finish.
Conclusion
When it comes to termites there is a lot at stake. Termites if given the opportunity can cause extensive damage to a structure. It is important if you think you may have an infestation to call a professional. Catching it early can save thousands. Call today to schedule a FREE TERMITE INSPECTION offered by Black Knight to concerned home owners. 951.694.8100.