If you’re a Phoenix homeowner, it’s important to be aware of the dangers posed by subterranean termites. These pests can silently destroy your property and can be very difficult to get rid of. ACTION Termite & Pest Control will discuss how to identify subterranean termites, as well as some natural ways to make your home less attractive to them. We’ll also cover the best way to protect your property from these destructive pests with pest control in Phoenix.
The Life Cycle Of Subterranean Termites
Subterranean termites are small, wingless insects that live in colonies underground. These kinds of termites in Phoenix are very adept at tunneling through soil, and can travel long distances in search of food.
Subterranean termites go through a complete metamorphosis, consisting of three distinct stages: egg, nymph, and adult. The eggs are laid by the queen termite, and hatch into nymphs after about two weeks. Nymphs undergo several molts before becoming adult soldiers or reproductives. Soldiers have large mandibles that they use to defend the colony from predators, while reproductives are responsible for mating and creating new colonies.
Subterranean termites typically enter homes through small cracks in the foundation, or through gaps around doors and windows. Once they’re inside, they can quickly begin to damage your property.
How Subterranean Termites Silently Destroy Property
Subterranean termites cause billions of dollars in damage to properties each year. These pests are particularly destructive because they can silently eat away at the wood in your home without being detected.
Termites primarily feed on wood, but will also eat other organic materials like paper and carpet. They prefer to eat softwoods like pine, but will also attack hardwoods if they are desperate for food. As they eat through the wood in your home, they create small tunnels known as galleries. These galleries can weaken the structural integrity of your property and make it more susceptible to collapse.
In addition to causing physical damage to your property, active termites can also cause health problems for you and your family. These pests produce a waste product known as frass, which is a sign of termites that can trigger allergies and asthma attacks in some people. If you suspect that you have a subterranean termite problem, it’s important to call a Phoenix termite control professional right away.
Natural Ways To Make Your Home Less Attractive To Termites
You can take steps to prevent a termite problem by making your home less attractive to them:
- Keep your gutters clean and free of debris.
- Repair any cracks in your foundation or exterior walls.
- Eliminate sources of moisture around your home, such as leaky pipes or standing water.
- Store firewood and other organic materials away from your home.
By taking these simple precautions, you can make your home less inviting to subterranean termites. If you do notice signs of termites in your Phoenix home, it’s important to call a termite removal professional right away.
The Best Way To Protect Your Property From Subterranean Termites
The best way to protect your property from subterranean termites is to partner with a pest control company that specializes in termite control. Since 1969, ACTION Termite & Pest Control has built our reputation on providing effective, reliable termite control services to homeowners in the Phoenix area. Our team of experienced professionals will inspect your property for signs of termites and develop a customized treatment plan to eliminate them. We also offer termite prevention services to help keep your property protected from these destructive pests.
If you’re concerned about subterranean termites, call ACTION Termite & Pest Control today. We’ll be happy to answer any of your questions and schedule a free inspection.
