The term, “eaten out of house and home” can be used to describe a couple of different things. It is most often used to describe hungry kids or grandchildren. However, this phrase would better suit termites! This saying becomes quite literal when it comes to these wood-eating pests. If you don’t know how to tell if your Fort Worth home has a termite problem, here are a few ways you can find out.
What Are Subterranean Termites?
Subterranean termites are the most common species of termite found in Fort Worth. These creatures live in colonies deep underground and work together to gather cellulose, the main component found in wood. Within each termite colony, there are kings, queens, and soldiers. After a colony has fully matured, queens will reproduce what are called termite swarmers. These creamy white to dark brown/black winged reproductive termites leave their nests and find new locations to start a home. They have a long, narrow and oval body with six legs and grow to be ⅛th of an inch long. It is not uncommon for several nests to all feed on one source of wood.
One thing that sets subterranean termites apart is their need for moisture. When invading homes, these pests will occasionally construct mud tubes. These tunnels serve two purposes, to keep them moist, and to allow them safe passage to a source of wood.
Signs Of Termite Activity
Termites almost entirely live inside wood or underground, which makes them extremely difficult to identify around homes. If the wood of your home directly touches exterior soil, or termites find another concealed way to get inside, these tubes might not be present. As termites damage homes over the course of years, more serious damage will begin to reveal itself. Overly squeaky floorboards, dipping ceilings, bubbling wallpaper/paint, tight-fitting doors and windows, and visible galleys running through wood are good ways to tell if your home has been infested by termites for a while.
How to Identify and Address Factors That Attract Termites
Termites are drawn to homes by a few different factors. Most often it is a piece or structure of water damaged, rotting, or decaying wood that attracts them in. Here are some ideas to help prevent an infestation in your home:
- When making any home repairs, do not use reclaimed or untreated wood, as it is likely to get damaged faster and become attractive to termites.
- Be sure your home’s wood is not coming in contact with exterior soil. If it is, create a non-wood barrier of either stone or concrete to separate it.
- Seal up cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior foundation using a caulking gun.
- Remove debris and clutter around your property, especially trash or foliage that is primarily wood-based.
- Be sure all firewood and untreated lumber is stored at least 30 feet from your home’s exterior.
A Better Way To Prevent Termites
Combating termites on your own is not easy and requires constant attention and effort. Preventing termites when you have access to All-Safe Pest & Termites, on the other hand, is incredibly easy! With the help and knowledge of our friendly staff, your home will be impossible for termites to invade, and you can rest easy knowing your investment is safe. Reach out to our team today to discuss options for your Fort Worth home and to find a plan that suits your needs! You will not be disappointed!