Subterranean Termite Treatment is, therefore, an important aspect of home management in Maine as these pests represent a real hazard to property. Subterranean termites live in underground colonies and invade homes quietly, wreaking havoc on wooden structures. In this blog post, we will focus on all aspects of Subterranean termites, the damage they cause, and methods of Subterranean Termite Treatment. This will include treatment methods, steps for the most effective eradication, and other tips for long-term protection. Finally, we will answer the five most common questions of property owners about these pests.
What are Subterranean Termites?
Termites are social insects, living in colonies beneath the ground. The social structure is highly organized and contains numerous castes including workers, soldiers, and reproductives (kings and queens). They feed on cellulose, which is found mostly in wood, and digest it with the help of enzymes produced in their bodies.
Subterranean termite species build extensive tunnel systems or mud tubes through which they access food sources. These tubes enable individuals to move between their nests in the ground and wood sources, without exposure to the drying effects of air. They enter buildings through cracks in the foundation, clearance around pipes, or via the tiniest openings in the soil.
Damages Caused by Subterranean Termites
The subterranean termites can wreak havoc. The damage is, at times, not visible until the collapse has taken place. They cause instability and possible collapse by weakening various structure supports, including beams, floor joists, and support posts. Besides, they also eat walls, floors, and furniture.
Signs of a termite infestation include:
1 Mud tubes: These are constructed thin tubes of mud used by the subterranean termites to travel from underground nests to food sources. They can very often be found on foundation walls, along pipes, and in crawl spaces.
2 Discarded wings: Swarms of winged termites may be observed during the mating season and discarded wings are most apparent near entry points.
3 Ringing wood: When wood infested by termites is tapped, it often rings hollow.
4 Frass: Wood pellets excreted by termites may be found around their multidimensional tunnels or nests.
5 Wood damage: Look for regards wood damage signs:
- Visible tunnels and galleries within the wood
- Discolored/damaged paint and wallpaper
- Sagging floors or ceilings
- Hollow wood when tapped
Types of Subterranean Termite Treatments
Several methods are available for Subterranean Termite Treatment. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages:
- Chemical Treatments:
- Liquid Termiticide works by injecting a termiticide filled with chemicals into the soil around the foundation of a home to create a barrier of chemicals. The living substances within the termiticide disturb the functioning of the termites’ digestive systems, leading to their deaths.
- Termite Baiting Systems: Bait stations contain slow-acting termiticides that workers carry back to the colony. The termites ingest the termiticides and share them with other colony members through a process called trophallaxis. Many regard this method as a more environmentally friendly approach compared to liquid termiticide applications.
- Physical Barriers:
- These proximity barriers are usually constructed of thin-gauged steel and eliminate wood as a food source for termites.
Comparison of Treatment Methods for Subterranean Termites
| Treatment Method | Effectiveness | Tools Needed | Cost |
| Liquid Termiticide | Highly effective, provides long-lasting protection | Specialized equipment for injection | Moderate to high |
| Termite Baiting Systems | Highly effective, environmentally friendly | Bait stations, monitoring tools | Moderate to high |
| Termite Shields | Effective in preventing initial infestations | Installation tools, materials | Moderate |
Steps for Successful Subterranean Termite Treatment
1 Inspection: An initial inspection of the premises carried out by a competent pest controller finds this to be the most vital part of determining the extent of infestation and the appropriate treatment mode. The inspector looks for signs of termite attacks, pill-by-pill notes on the inspection of damage, and pinpointing probable entry points.
2 Treatment Plan: The treatment plan according to the investigation will be highly customized. The procedure emphasizes the chosen treatment method, the areas intended for treatment, and the timeline for when treatments might occur.
3 Treatment application: The application shall go forth, following the plan of the chosen method of treatment. When applying a liquid termiticide, professionals inject it into the soil surrounding the foundation using specialized equipment. When using baiting systems, they establish bait stations around the perimeter of the home.
4 Monitoring: Inspection is performed throughout the treatment program to verify effectiveness and to check for renewed infestation. Methods may include monitoring bait stations and visually inspecting possible mud tubes.
Long-Term Protection Tips
- Regular Inspections: An external pest control should be scheduled for regular inspection to facilitate the early recycling of possible infestations. By detecting pest infestation early on, one can avert immense damages and reduce the cost of treatment.
- Moisture Control: Control moisture around the house through drainage, blockage of leaks, and ventilation in crawl spaces. Subterranean termites thrive in moist environments; hence moisture control can deter them.
- Do Not Contact Wood: Bridge no wood-to-soil contact. Keep firewood and other wood piles away from the foundation.
- Trimming of Trees and Shrubs Away from the Foundation: Trim trees and shrubs away from the foundation to reduce points of entry for termites. Overhanging branches can become bridges for termites to easily climb up the roof and other parts of the house.
- Adequate Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in crawl spaces and attics to reduce moisture buildup.
- Periodic Inspection of Wooden Structures: Regularly inspect wooden structures such as the deck, fence, and outbuildings for signs of termites.
Common Questions About Subterranean Termites
Q1: How do I know if I have a termite infestation?
Ans: Look for mud tubes, discarded wings, and other signs mentioned earlier.
Q2: Are termites dangerous to humans?
Ans: While Subterranean termites primarily damage property, they do not pose a direct threat to human health.
Q3: Can I treat a termite infestation myself?
Ans: While some DIY treatment options exist, such as termite baits, it’s generally recommended to consult with a professional pest control company for effective and safe Subterranean Termite Treatment.
Professional pest control companies have the expertise and experience to accurately assess the extent of the infestation, select the most appropriate treatment method, and ensure the effective elimination of the colony.
Q4: How much does termite treatment cost?
Ans: The cost of Subterranean Termite Treatment varies depending on the severity of the infestation, the size of the home, the chosen treatment method, and the local market conditions.
Obtaining quotes from multiple pest control companies can help you compare prices and choose the most cost-effective option.
Conclusion
Don’t let Subterranean termites damage your Maine home. Contact GOGETFIX today for a free inspection and expert advice on Subterranean Termite Treatment. Our experienced professionals will provide you with a customized treatment plan to protect your property from these destructive pests.