Termites cause more annual damage than all natural disasters combined. They can chew up your home’s infrastructure and you might not even realize it until it’s too late. These pests are small, viscous and difficult to get rid of without the help of a pest control professional. The first order of business in the fight against termites is to learn a little more about the enemy. Here are some fun facts about two different types of termites:
Dampwood Termites
Size: ½”-⅝”
Color: Dark Brown
Diet: Very moist wood
Habitat: These termites tend to live in areas that carry a lot of moisture, hence the name ‘Dampwood Termites.’
Prevention: If they like the damp climate, then you need to take them out of their comfort zone. Be sure to routinely check plumbing for leaks and thoroughly clean any flood damage your home has endured. You should also evaluate your home’s drainage system and make sure all of your spouts are leading water away from your home!
Drywood Termites
Size: ⅜”
Color: Light Brown
Diet: Wood, wallpaper, plastics and plant fabric
Habitat: These termites are even more difficult to tame because they don’t need soil contact or moisture.
Prevention: The first thing you should do is make sure all firewood and scrap metal is stored in a separate shed away from your home. The next thing you should do is seal even the smallest opening around your home. You can even incorporate this into your annual fall maintenance checklist.
Termites are one of the more difficult pests to combat. They live in large colonies and they are not as dumb as they look. It takes the mind of a pest control professional to attack these guys where they are the most vulnerable. You can find those pest control professionals at Pest Control Unlimited and we are waiting for your call.
To schedule service, call 888-649-9919 or click around on our website!
