Termites
Subterranean Termites: These are the most common termites attacking buildings and are found throughout the United States. From nests in the ground they invade where wood contacts the soil or by building earthen tubes to provide protected access to wood above ground. Winged reproductives are about 1/2 inch long and workers and soldiers about 1/4 inch long.
Dampwood Termites: These are the largest American termites, with the winged forms over 1 inch long. Most species occur along the Pacific coast, with some in Florida and the Southwest, infesting wet wood, such as poles, posts and pilings. They do not build tubes to reach structures. Feces are characteristic oval-shaped pellets.
Drywood Termites: These are larger than subterranean termites but smaller than dampwood termites. They attack dry, sound wood which need not be in contact with the ground. They are the most common termite pest in the Southwest, infesting poles, lumber piles, buildings and trees. They spread by the flight of winged reproductives, which after mating enter through crevices in nearby wood, especially under the eaves. Unlike subterranean termites, they do not build earthen tubes and their tunnels in wood are smooth and clean-fecal material being dry pellets which are neatly stored or expelled in sawdust-like piles.
Powderpost or Furniture Termites: These termites infest dry woodwork, floors and furniture in the Gulf states. Their presence is usually indicated by the constant dropping of fine, powdery fecal pellets. Most unusual, all castes are small. Like drywood termites, there may be many small colonies in the same building.
What Can You Do Against Termites?
Termites avoid extremes of heat and cold as well as storms and predators by living what is known as a “cryptobiotic” or hidden way of life. This makes them extremely difficult for untrained personnel to detect until the damage they cause becomes obvious. Termites can attack all types of wood. Even termite-resistant woods, such a tidewater red cypress and western red cedar, can ultimately be attacked, because they lose their natural resistance with aging. Keeping termites out is extremely difficult, because in seeking wood to eat they have been known to penetrate ordinary brickwork, tar and asphalt, roofing felt and cracks in concrete. Professionally installed metal termite shields can be effective, but they may subsequently fail because of corrosion, accidental disturbance, or building settlement. Likewise, previously-applied chemical barriers may have been later disrupted during landscaping or construction of home extensions. Re-application of chemicals to the soil against termites is not a do-it-yourself option because these products are not available to homeowners and, in any case, all pesticide treatments against termites require special equipment and knowhow. However, here are 10 measures you can carry out that can help protect your property.
