July, 4, 2022

Termites: An invisible pest

We are quick to take action when we see a cockroach, ants or other insects crawling around our home or business. What about termites?

Termites are often hidden in the walls and attic. By the time we notice them, they have already done the damage. The two prominent species: Subterranean (Formosan) and Drywood termites, are common in Southeast Texas.

Subterranean Termites: These species of termite is a social insect. They live in large colonies and build tunnels inside their nest. Formosan termite is a subspecies of Subterranean Termites. In metropolitan areas of Houston, Galveston and Port Arthur, Formosan Termites dominate.  They destroy woods and cause more damage than any other species.

Drywood Termite: Drywood termite are not as prevalent in Southeast Texas region as Formosan. However, they also pose risk of property damage. Unlike Subterranean Termite species, Drywood Termite do not need soil to expand their colony. They extract moisture from the wood they chew. These species is found in attic and furniture of homes and businesses.

Now that we know little bit about termites, what can we do to control and prevent them? Answer is simple. You need to carry out a yearly inspection for your property. Especially, structures in flood planes and affected by heavy rainfall.

You can do a simple inspection by visually checking any signs of tunneling, boring or damaged wood. Upon seeing such signs, an expert must be hired to carry out more thorough inspection.

The other option is to install termite bait stations around your house where conducive conditions exist. And routinely check these bait stations for any signs of termite activity. These form of monitoring is very effective against Formosan termites. For drywood termites, look for frass near window sills, permanent furniture and wooden fixtures inside the structure. Tap on the walls and note if walls feel hallowed out.

Routing inspection and monitoring is a tedious task. And more often than not, you won’t find any termite activity. However, it only takes one colony to go undetected to bring down your home or business, but if caught early you can save thousands of dollars in damages.

So next time you see a cockroach or an ant inside your home, ask yourself this question:  when was the last time I did a termite inspection?