Termite Identification & Prevention
What are termites?
In Texas, termites are wood-destroying insects that live in large populations throughout the Austin and San Antonio area. Termites feed on the cellulose found in wood and other natural materials. Eastern subterranean termites, Formosan termites, and drywood termites are the three species we have to protect our homes against in our area of the country. Each has unique wants and needs, but all can cause costly damage to our homes.
- Eastern subterranean termites nest underground in damp soil. They are the most widespread termites across the country. These termites have high moisture needs and like to feed on wet or decaying wood.
- Formosan Termites are also subterranean termites. These termites live in extremely large colonies, making them difficult to control. They are unique because they can create nests in the ground as well as aerial carton nests. These termites live in extremely large colonies, making them difficult to control.
- Drywood termites live in small colonies and nest in the wood they are feeding on. They have low moisture needs and prefer to feed on sound wood. They are efficient feeders and can cause significant damage despite their small colony size.
Are termites dangerous?
Every year across the United States, termites cause billions of dollars in damages. These pests don't pose significant dangers to people, contaminate our food, or spread diseases. However, the considerable damage termites cause to our homes and bank accounts make them dangerous pests to have living in our Texas homes!
Why do I have a termite problem?
Termites are opportunistic and will take advantage of any property that provides them with a suitable nesting spot that puts them close to food sources. We call termites silent invaders because, unlike ants and other pests we see traveling throughout our homes, we rarely, if ever, see termites.
Termites spend their life hidden from view under the ground, in mud tubes, in their nest, or inside the wood they are feeding on. It can take years to discover their presence, and usually only after they have caused significant damage.
To help you identify a termite infestation faster, we want to provide you with a list of some of the most common signs that signal termites are in your home:
- Peeling paint or wallpaper that may appear similar to water damage
- Buckling wood floors
- Small pinpoint holes in drywall or wooden structures
- Excessively squeaky floors
- Windows or doors that aren't opening or closing properly
- Discovering the mud tubes that termites travel through, moving up the foundation or basement walls
Why Choose EnviroGuard Pest Control?
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40+ Years of Industry ExperienceWith decades of combined experience in pest control, we have a solution for whatever is bugging you!
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Environmentally-Friendly Products AvailableYour family and pet's health and safety are always top of mind which is why we use only the best methods and products.
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Locally Owned & Operated OfficesOur offices are locally owned which means we have a deep understanding of the local pests to each area and the best solution for them.
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Competitive Pricing & Customized PlansEvery home is different. We create a tailored solution for your individual case that works for your budget.
Where Will I Find Termites?
Eastern subterranean termites move into our homes through cracks in the foundation or wood making direct contact with the damp soil. Once they are in our homes, they travel through wood floor joists and into structural wood behind walls or under floors. The wood behind walls or under floors near window sills, water pipes, or air conditioners is most likely to be damaged by water and used as a food source by subterranean termites.
Formosan termites will build nests in the ground like subterranean termites. However, they also create aerial nests (usually) on the rooftops of buildings or in the wall voids of our homes. We find them feeding on structural wood around windows, doors, and light fixtures.
Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites live, feed, and nest inside the wooden structures they are feeding on. In our yards and homes, drywood termites regularly feed on lumber, utility poles, fences, decks, wood trim, and wooden furniture.
How Can I Prevent Termites in the Future?
Prevent issues with termites in your Austin home using our most helpful termite prevention tips.
- Fix leaks immediately.
- Replace any wood in your home damaged by water with sound wood.
- Reduce access into your home by repairing cracks in your foundation, exterior walls, and roof.
- Do not pile wood near your home's exterior walls.
- Remove dead trees and fallen limbs from your property
Properly ventilate your home to help reduce moisture levels. - Use dehumidifiers to reduce excess moisture in your home.
- Always inspect wooden items for signs of termites before bringing them inside.
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