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Control of Subterranean Termites |
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Written by Russ Frank
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Wednesday, 09 December 2009 09:04 |
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Termite control techniques may change depending on the species of termite. Subterranean termites require higher levels of moisture than drywood termites. For that reason they nest in the soil. Drywood termites require less moisture so they can nest in dry wood. Fumigation is effective against drywood termites but soil treatments or bait systems are the only termite control methods that work well against subterranean termites.
by RussFrank
Termite control techniques may change depending on the species of termite. Subterranean termites require higher levels of moisture than drywood termites. For that reason they nest in the soil. Drywood termites require less moisture so they can nest in dry wood. Fumigation is effective against drywood termites but soil treatments or bait systems are the only termite control methods that work well against subterranean termites.
The wide distribution of subterranean termites across the U.S., especially in the southern states, is the cause of most of the termite damage recorded in the country. The cost of termite control and termite damage repair throughout the country is around $4.5 billion.
The ideal situation for subterranean termites is to find wood that is in close contact with the soil. If they find wood nearby but not touching the soil, they will build "mud tubes," to connect the colony to their food, the wood. Mud tubes are essentially highways that allow termites access to their food supply without being exposed to predators or weather.
The nature of termites is to remain hidden. They avoid exposure to the outside environment. In addition to the use of mud tubes, they also prefer to remain hidden on the inside of wood. This makes termite control all the more difficult. Infested wood may appear perfectly normal on the outside while the inside is largely eaten away.
So how can subterranean termites be detected? Mud tubes are an obvious sign. Accumulations of wings are another bad sign, especially if they are recent. If a patch of wood looks suspicious, tap on it with the handle of a screwdriver. Any hollow sounds should be considered another warning sign. Contact a termite control professional to verify your findings.
Experts have found that there are 2 ways to control subterranean termites, either by soil treatments or by baiting systems. Each method of termite control has advantages and disadvantages. Many homeowners consider soil treatments to be disruptive. In addition, large amounts of chemicals are used. On the other hand, the colonies are eliminated fairly quickly and protection will continue for several years.
Baiting systems work by offering termites small amounts of wood as bait. When termites locate the bait, the wood is replaced by bait that contains a slow-acting poison. When it is taken back to the colony and shared, the colony dies. The advantages of this termite control system are that it is not disruptive, and that it uses very small amounts of poison. The disadvantages are that it may take several months to eliminate the colony, and that the cost of monitoring make it a bit more expensive than the soil treatment.
The behaviors and needs of subterranean termites are the key to both understanding and control. The first step is to locate potential problems around the home and make the changes needed to reduce the risk. The second step is to schedule annual termite inspections by a termite control professional. Immediate detection will minimize any damage and keep your home safe for years to come.
About the Author:
Russ Frank is the owner of Florida Bug Inspectors, and a termite control expert. FBI has been solving pest control problems for more than 25 years. We offer control of drywood termites in New Tampa, Temple Terrace, Lutz and other nearby communities. Call the best - call Florida Bug Inspectors. |
