Pest Description
Subterranean Termite Habits
Subterranean termites are the most common and most destructive termites in North America. They live underground in large nests, only coming to the surface for wood. Once they find a source of wood, a colony will build an elaborate network of mud tubes, reaching up to the wooden underside of a structure and continuing to burrow within the wood. Because most of their time is spent either within mud tubes, underground, or inside wood, they can be virtually undetectable.
Prevention of Subterranean Termites
The best way to prevent subterranean termites is to make sure that they cannot and have not entered a home. Termites will commonly use existing holes like utility or plumbing corridors to begin their tunneling. Any and all cracks or utility holes where their tunnels can access a structure must be completely sealed shut. There are also treatments designed to repel termites; these are best applied during construction, but can also be applied to an existing structure.
Eliminating Subterranean Termites
A licensed pest control professional should be called to inspect the building if a termite infestation is suspected. A termite exterminator should also inspect the property, ensuring that it is adequately sealed.
