Protecting Your Castle From Pests

Termites

Protecting Your Castle From Pests

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What are termites?

Termites are unassuming insects that we rarely lay our eyes on. However, they have the unparalleled ability to invade our homes and cause extensive and costly damage. Termites are a type of wood-destroying insect, feeding on the cellulose found in wood and other organic matter. They have a unique enzyme in their gut that allows them to turn cellulose into usable sugar. Termites live and work together in large groups, with most species attacking decaying or water-damaged wood and others attacking sound wood.

Are termites dangerous?

Termites are responsible for billions of dollars in damages across the country each year. While they may pose no health threats to people, they unquestionably pose a massive danger to our property and bank accounts. Most homeowners insurance does not cover termite damage because it is preventable, leaving the cost of repairs up to the homeowner. Termites move into homes and other buildings through the ground and work unnoticed. When their presence is finally apparent, they have more than likely been feeding on the structural wood for months or years.

Common Types of Termites in The Central Valley

DryWood Termites

These termites are found coast to coast throughout the southern regions of the US. They live inside dry wood. Their colonies can be dispersed within your home and can spread, infesting multiple areas throughout. They can cause serious damage to structures long before they are discovered. Piles of sawdust-like pellets (called frass) or termite droppings are a distinct sign of infestation.

Subterranean Termites

These termites live in colonies in the soil. They require moisture from the soil to survive and can tunnel hundreds of feet to reach feeding sites. To reach food above ground, they build mud tubes to protect themselves from exposure to light, air, and enemies.

Formosan Termites

These termites destroy wood at an alarmingly rapid pace. Formosan termites have large colonies that can occupy a territory up to 300 square feet. They dig through soil and eat wood. Formosan Termites have hairy wings and larger bodies than Subterranean Termites.

Why do I have a termite problem?

Termites become a problem inside homes and other structures after finding their way indoors while out foraging for food. They enter in through cracks in the foundation or wooden structures (deck posts, wooden shingles, porch steps) that are making direct contact with the soil. Once inside, they move behind walls. If they find water-damaged wood, insulation, or other cellulose-based materials, the termites will start attacking and feeding their colony with it.

Where will I find termites?

You will find termites active and working to feed their colony 24/7 throughout the entire year. They move back and forth from their food source to their nest each day, traveling through the soil or the mud tubs they create to stay protected when they are above the ground. Termites usually feed on pieces of wood that are out of sight. Feeding termites invade wood behind walls, below floors, and above ceilings. They will first attack water-damaged wood, such as around leaky pipes, then eventually move on to sound wood.

How do I get rid of termites?

The best way to get rid of termites that are in your yard or home and prevent them from returning is to partner with Castle Pest Management. Our experienced professionals and modern services provide home and business owners with peace of mind knowing that their pest problems will be solved once and for all. If you are looking to get rid of termites from your property with the help of dedicated, local professionals, reach out to Castle Pest Management today!

How can I prevent termites in the future?

As a home or business owner, there are many things you can do to help prevent a termite infestation. When we perform an inspection we will also be happy to guide you in prevention on your property. Partner with Castle Pest Management and use the following prevention tips:

  • Remove possible food sources like fallen trees, tree stumps, and piles of leaves from your property.
  • Keep termites out by creating an 18-inch barrier between any mulch or soil and your home’s foundation.
  • Seal up cracks in your foundation. Caulk gaps found around windows and doors.
  • Fix leaky pipes, faucets, or fixtures, and keep gutters in good working order. Every year, a gutter guard should be examined and cleaned.
  • Keep crawlspaces ventilated. Reduce moisture levels in and around your home using dehumidifiers to dry out basements and crawl spaces.
  • Get a termite inspection and start a termite prevention service.

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