There are more than 2,000 species of termites in the world, roughly 50 of which are found in the United States. Of these, about 20 species fall into the category of structural pest and will invade – and eat – wooden structures. Alaska is the only U.S. state where termites are not found.
Termite thrive in warmer climates, so their activity is greatest in the South, Southeast, West and Southwest. The three most important types of termites in the U.S. – in terms of activity and damage – are drywood, dampwood and subterranean termites. In Fredericksburg, the Eastern Subterranean Termite is the most common, causing millions of dollars of damage to properties each year.
Termites invade homes by moving from their colonies in the yard to the foundations of your home. Even newly built homes can to vulnerable to termites. They are already in the ground around your home whether you wanted them or not. You just need to make sure you don’t invite them in.
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- Worker Termites Feeding
What attracts termites?
While all termites are attracted to wood, each type or species have specific preferences. Subterranean termites, most prevalent in Fredericksgurg, is attracted to moist soil and infests any wood that is in contact with the ground. Subterranean termites construct mud tubes that they use as a roadway to move from the soil of the ground to wood of your home. Termites create mud tubes to provide protection against dehydration when traveling above ground.
Common termite attractions:
- Wooden structures, like porches and decks, in direct contact with the ground
- Stacks of firewood that lean against the house
- Damp soil near foundations from leaking faucets, gutters, or downspouts
- Trees and shrubs planted close to the building.
Termite prevention tips:
- Grade or slope water from foundation
- Keep plants and ground cover 3-4 feet away from foundation
- Remove unnecessary plant cover and wood mulch
- Seal entry points around water and utility lines or pipes
- Repair leaking faucets, water pipes, and A/C units
- Keep firewood and lumber away from foundation
- Get rid of stumps and yard debris near house
- Divert rain water away from house by keeping gutters and downspouts clean
How do I make them go away?
Homeowners can follow the termite prevention tips listed above, however, this is just a preventative measure, it won’t make them go away. If the termites are already in your home, then it is too late for preventative measures. Contacting your local pest control experts is the best and most efficient way to successfully treat termite infestations and prevent further activity.
When was your home last inspected for termites?
Sigma Pest Control offers the most comprehensive, affordable, and flexible treatment control plan in the industry. Utilizing the most effective method of control (liquid barrier) with the longevity and flexibility most other companies only offer with the inferior baiting method. Couple this with our bundled payment options, and Sigma Pest Control is the only answer to protect your most valuable investment, your home, from termites.
