Subterranean termites are the most common, and consequently, the most destructive type of termites to infest American homes and businesses. These hardworking bugs make their home underground, but when it comes to doing structural damage to your property, the sky is the limit. If you’ve got subterranean termites in Salt Lake City, the problem may be more serious than you think.
About Subterranean Termites
The average subterranean termite colony contains anywhere between 60,000 to over one million members. Like ants and bees, subterranean termites are social insects with a queen, a king, and several castes with their own unique appearance and purpose. The average subterranean termite worker measures only about 1/8 inch long, but can cause incredible destruction if left untreated.
Unlike dampwood termites that prefer to nest around decaying logs and trees in the wilderness or drywood termites that infest structural wood, subterranean termites make their home underground and connect their colony to your property using crude mud tunnels or “termite tubes.
Termite tubes help to preserve the humidity that subterranean termites need in order to survive. They are also one of the most noticeable signs of a termite infestation. While you may never see a single live termite on your property, much less notice the structural damage being done, the appearance of muddy termite tubes along the foundation or in the basement is impossible to ignore.
How Bad Are Subterranean Termites?
Every year, termites cause an estimated five billion dollars in damage to properties in the U.S. The extent of destruction can vary, but by the time most folks realize that they have a termite problem, it’s already too late. In some cases, doors and windows may start to jam and maze-like patterns may appear in floorboards. Without intervention, termites can cause walls and floors to completely collapse.
The unfortunate reality of termites is that they leave few signs of their presence. Infestations can go on for months or years without detection and repairs can cost thousands of dollars. That’s why when it comes to termites, prevention is the best policy
How To Prevent Subterranean Termites
Termite prevention can take some effort, but the time you spend stopping termites now is less money to spend on termite repairs later. You can prevent subterranean termites on your Salt Lake City property by:
- Limiting soil-to-wood contact – Ensure that no lumber or structural wood is making direct contact with soil. If building a new addition, be sure to elevate any wooden segments on concrete or similar material.
- Reducing moisture – Subterranean termites depend on moisture and humidity. Ensure that drains and gutters are free of obstructions that can cause water to back up into the soil. Ventilate basement areas by opening windows and running electric fans or install a dehumidifier.
- Doing some landscaping – Keep any gardens or woody plants from making direct contact with the property by moving them at least 6 inches away. Switch to a cellulose-free mulch to discourage termites.
- Doing some yard work – Eliminate any fallen trees, rotting logs, or piles of yard waste like sticks and leaves. Move firewood at least 20 feet away from the property and store on an elevated platform with a cover.
If you’re concerned with subterranean termites on your Salt Lake City property, the best solution is professional assistance from White Knight Pest Control. Our robust termite control offerings start with a comprehensive inspection of your property for all signs of activity, followed by unbeatable treatment options. We use industry-leading Termidor® to eliminate your termites and Termi-Shield Termite Monitoring to keep your property safe. All of our termite services come fully warrantied! Contact us today to learn more.