Subterranean Termites

What do subterranean termites look like?

There are several types of subterranean termites in a colony, each with their own appearance and job to do. Reproductive termites are similar in size and appearance to carpenter ants. They are also the members of a termite colony that you’re most likely to see since the other members stay underground. They grow to about ¾ of an inch long, are dark brown to black, and have long wings that they discard after mating.

Worker termites are smaller, growing to about a quarter of an inch in length. They have creamy white bodies and small jaws that they use to chew away at wood. Their job is to build the tunnels and nests for the colony and take care of the young termites and the queen.

Soldier termites are tasked with defending the colony. While similar in size and color to worker termites, soldier termites can be distinguished by their blockier heads and large jaws. They also tend to have heads that are darker in color than the rest of their bodies.

What do subterranean termites eat?

Subterranean termites eat cellulose. Since cellulose is abundant in wood, they most often infest wood to have a steady food supply for the entire colony.

What attracts subterranean termites?

Subterranean termites prefer water-damaged or rotting wood, but they will also infest dry, sound wood. If your property has plenty of moisture and areas where wooden structures come into direct contact with the soil, it will attract subterranean termites.

How destructive are subterranean termites?

The destructive nature of subterranean termites cannot be overstated. Their colonies can grow into hundreds of thousands of termites, all needing the cellulose in wood to survive. In the United States alone, termites cause over $5 billion in property damage each year, most of which is caused by subterranean termites. It’s important to note that most homeowners’ insurance plans do not cover termite damage, leaving you to foot the bill out of pocket.

How common are subterranean termites in Texas?

Subterranean termites are the most common termites in Texas.

How can I tell if I have a subterranean termite problem?

Identifying a subterranean termite infestation can be difficult because they rarely come out in the open. Instead, you must know what signs to look for to identify an issue. 

• Mud tubes. Termites build these pencil-width tunnels along foundation walls. They move from one place to another without drying out in the open air.
• A hollow sound in wooden structures. If you knock on wood and it sounds hollow, it can indicate a termite problem.
• Doors and windows that get stuck when you try to open or close them. 
• Peeling paint or bubbling wallpaper.

If you see any of the signs above, you’ll want to contact the professionals at Marathon Pest Control for a professional termite inspection.

Why do flying termites suddenly appear?

Flying termites are the reproductive members of a colony. When they suddenly appear in a large swarm, they are mating. You should be aware of a couple of things about a termite swarm. First, it means a well-established colony is already on your property. Second, it means that new colonies are about to form. If you see a termite swarm, you should immediately contact Marathon Pest Control.

I just found termites in my yard. Does my house need to be treated?

If there are termites in your yard, they may or may not be in your house already. Either way, you need to eliminate the termites before they can cause more damage. Even if they aren’t already in your home, they will eventually enter if given the opportunity.

My neighbor has a termite infestation; should I be worried?

Unfortunately, your neighbor’s termite problem is also your termite problem. A well-established colony will release reproductive termites to mate and start new colonies. If you don’t have termite protection, there is a chance some of those termites will end up in your yard and, eventually your house. In this case, scheduling a termite inspection is highly recommended.

How do I exterminate termites?

If you suspect termites have infested your home or business, Marathon Pest Control is the local pest control company to call! We offer effective termite control services that eliminate existing termite activity and prevent new termite colonies from establishing.

Can I prevent a subterranean termite infestation?

Thankfully, despite the destruction that termites cause, you don’t have to worry about them damaging your house if you’re willing to take some preventative measures. Reducing moisture around your property and eliminating any areas where wood comes into direct contact with the soil, such as fence posts, is a good start. However, the most effective way to prevent termites is with termite control and prevention from Marathon Pest Control. Every home in The Woodlands should have termite protection.