Subterranean Termite Control Basics

Termite control methods vary depending on the type of termite involved. Drywood termites have the ability to nest in dry wood without any contact with moist soil. Subterranean termites must nest in the ground as they require the moisture soil provides. Drywood termites may be controlled with fumigation, also known as “tenting.” Subterranean termites however, cannot be controlled by fumigation. They require either soil treatments or baiting methods for control.

According to experts, most termite damage in the U.S. is caused by subterranean termites. The reason is their wide distribution, especially in the southern states. By comparison most drywood termites are located in coastal regions. The annual bill in the U.S. for termite control and damage repair exceeds $4.5 billion.

Subterranean termites prefer wood that is in contact with soil. Lacking that, they can build termite highways called “mud tubes” to provide access to their food supply without the risk of exposure to either predators or the weather.

The nature of termites is to remain hidden. They avoid exposure to the outside environment. In addition to the use of mud tubes, they also prefer to remain hidden on the inside of wood. This makes termite control all the more difficult. Infested wood may appear perfectly normal on the outside while the inside is largely eaten away.

So how can subterranean termites be detected? Mud tubes are an obvious sign. Accumulations of wings are another bad sign, especially if they are recent. If a patch of wood looks suspicious, tap on it with the handle of a screwdriver. Any hollow sounds should be considered another warning sign. Contact a termite control professional to verify your findings.

Soil treatments and termite bait are the 2 effective termite control methods. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Soil treatments tend to be disruptive for the homeowner. In addition, large amounts of chemicals are used. On the plus side, infestations can be eliminated fairly quickly and protection continues for several years.

Baiting systems work by offering termites small amounts of wood as bait. When termites locate the bait, the wood is replaced by bait that contains a slow-acting poison. When it is taken back to the colony and shared, the colony dies. The advantages of this termite control system are that it is not disruptive, and that it uses very small amounts of poison. The disadvantages are that it may take several months to eliminate the colony, and that the cost of monitoring make it a bit more expensive than the soil treatment.

The behaviors and needs of subterranean termites are the key to both understanding and control. The first step is to locate potential problems around the home and make the changes needed to reduce the risk. The second step is to schedule annual termite inspections by a termite control professional. Immediate detection will minimize any damage and keep your home safe for years to come.

Russ Frank is the owner of Florida Bug Inspectors, a leading Tampa pest control company with over 25 years experience solving tough pest and termite control problems. Russ offers control ofsubterranean termites in Brandon, Riverview, Ruskin and other communities near Tampa.