Did you know that there are 45 species of termites found in the United States? These pests are known to cause massive and irreversible damage to homes in San Antonio, Texas. But, you need not anguish, as Accurate Pest Control is the industry leader in termite control. We will help you differentiate between termites depending on their type and age. Each falls into one of the three main termite classes-the Subterranean Termites, Dry wood Termites the Desert Dampwood Termites. Every kind has a unique biology/function that impacts where they live, make their nests, and their probability to damage homes.
1. Subterranean Termites
Subterranean Termites are the most prevailing/destructive critters in San Antonio, Texas. They multiply fast to as many as two million when they cluster in spring. They are primarily found in the soil underground but also live in moist, hidden spaces above ground. If you’re not watchful, they can even collapse a structure; this means the possible fiscal ruin of your property.
Identification
These termites are usually dark brown to black and have just about ¼ to ½ inch long pairs of wings. They have stiff, saw-toothed jaws sharp as scissors and can bite off excessively tiny remains of wood.
Detection
They can construct unique tunnels that look like mud tubes to reach food sources and shield themselves from free air. These pests use their scissor-like jaws to eat wood the whole day, feeding on cellulose-rich food items.
Extermination
We believe the appropriate way to kill subterranean termites is to avoid water accumulation near the home base. Stop these termites by diverting water away with adequately running drains. You can stock up firewood at least 20 feet away from home and keep mulch away at least 15 inches from the structure. Ensure less moisture indoors through proper aeration of attics and basements to avoid attracting termite swarms.
2. Drywood Termite
The Western Drywood Termite is a local insect and is the second most significant pest. It has evolved and survived for millions of years, feeding and infesting homes/wooden structures.
Identification
These termites are seen only when repairing infested homes, as they live deep inside the wood structures. These are known as swarmers because they have flight wings and go swarming to street and porch lights at dark.
Detection
You can easily detect this type of termite by their fecal pellets or when they swarm to street or porch lights. We advise you to leave the inspection and infestation to our dedicated termite inspection team in San Antonio.
Extermination
Dry wood termites are tricky to identify, and determining the extent of damage is better left to experts. Hence, DIY treatments don’t work, since dry wood termites require localized or structured methods. Extensive damage needs structured treatments wherein the entire foundation around the infestation area is isolated and treated with Termidor®
3. Dampwood Termite
Dampwood termites are widespread, primarily found in cool, humid, and high moisture places. You can see them infesting rotten driftwood and trees along river banks and streams. They are also seen in homes with leakage and plumbing issues, causing the wood to become soggy, creating favorable conditions for termites to swarm.
Identification
Dampwood termites are 25mm long and are winged, typically found around the wooden structures’ leaking areas. They can also be found around the roof and drain rain pipes.
Detection
Unlike other termites, damp wood termites don’t create mud tubes; instead, they cover their entry points with their feces. Professionals can only detect dampwood termites, as the infested area will be highly moist/fungal-prone areas of homes/wooden structures.
Extermination
A bait device is used to eliminate dampwood termites. It is placed beneath the ground to entice termites to feed on them. This method can constrain the spread to the colony or reduce infestation. Liquid treatment is inserted directly into wood or termite colonies.
We suggest you call a trusted termite inspection team or a licensed pest control company in San Antonio quickly on the first signs of infestations. Our bonded, insured, and trained professionals will inspect your home thoroughly, looking for signs of termite infestations using cutting-edge equipment. We provide you with guidance and pest control plans that will help your home from future infestations.
Call Accurate Pest Control today for a no-cost estimate to your pest control needs in San Antonio!