Subterranean termites are among the most destructive and deadly species of termites in existence. Their ability to quickly consume wood makes them a menace to homes throughout the United States. The difficulty in detecting them once they get inside your home only adds to the problems they present. Luckily, there are some things you can do to make sure you don’t fall prey to a subterranean termite infestation. For help dealing with these pests, contact Wildlife and Pest Control Experts for the best pest control in Jacksonville.
About The Subterranean Termite Caste System
Termites have a caste system that determines which termites in a colony perform certain tasks. The three castes in a subterranean termite colony are workers, soldiers, and swarmers, also called alates. Workers are usually a quarter of an inch or less in length with cream-colored bodies. Their jaws can efficiently consume and remove wood, and they are responsible for feeding the rest of the colony. Soldiers are usually about the same size as workers, but their heads are larger, more rectangular, and darker in color. They also have mandibles that they use to defend the workers and protect the colony from threats. Swarmers are the reproductive members of the colony. Their job is to ensure the colony’s continued survival. Their bodies are longer and darker than workers or soldiers, ranging from a quarter to half an inch in length, and are dark brown to black. Swarmers also have wings, which they shed after they mate. Finding large numbers of discarded swarmer wings near doors or windows often indicates that you may have a termite infestation in your home.
Subterranean Termites Can Severely Damage Your Home
Now that we’ve covered the basics of Jacksonville subterranean termite identification let’s examine the damage that subterranean termites can cause to your house if left unchecked. A relatively small subterranean termite colony can consume one-fifth of an ounce of wood in a single day. Over the course of a year, a colony of this size can eat more than eight square feet of wood. Termites cost United States homeowners over five billion dollars every year, and homeowners’ insurance rarely covers these damages.
How To Keep Subterranean Termites From Coming Back
We’ve looked at how subterranean termites can wreak havoc on your house; now, let’s examine some tips on how to keep termites away. These prevention steps should help prevent subterranean termites from invading your home.
- Eliminate any sources of standing water or moisture buildup, especially near the foundation of your home.
- Seal any cracks or openings in the exterior of your home.
- Store firewood away from your house and off the ground, and don’t bury lumber in the yard.
- Make sure the wooden parts of your home are not in contact with the ground.
If you do encounter an infestation of termites on your property, don’t worry. There is still something you can do to reclaim your house from these pests.
Contact The Professionals For Quality Subterranean Termite Control
If you’re facing a termite infestation in Jacksonville, the best thing you can do is contact our team at Wildlife and Pest Control Experts. Our technicians are well-equipped, well-trained, and passionate about their jobs. We strive to provide optimal service for each customer, and we offer free estimates as well as same-day services whenever possible. All of our products are eco-friendly and used responsibly. We are the best termite control company for your Jacksonville home. Contact Wildlife and Pest Control Experts today!
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