Termite Inspections & Control
Termites serve an important purpose in nature. They break down dead trees and other types of vegetation by digesting wood and other forms of cellulose materials. While this is a necessary part of preserving a delicately balanced ecosystem, when termites try to take over your home or business, it’s definitely time to spring into action! The experienced professionals at A Five Star Termite & Pest Control are the experts when it comes to protecting homes from termites in Texas. There are three types of termites that you need to be aware of in Texas. Education, understanding and a comprehensive Five Star Termite & Pest Control plan is the key that can help you keep these destructive invaders away from your home!
Subterranean Termite Damage Prevention
This termite builds colonies underground and needs soil to maintain adequate moisture levels. A subterranean colony cannot survive without sufficient moisture. Subterranean Termites are the most common type of termite found in the United States. There are numerous species and of subterranean termites, one of the most destructive is the Formosan subterranean termites. This particular type of termite can also form a nest above ground, which limits the need for relying solely on underground nests. Signs of subterranean termites include seeing flying swarmers and mud tunnels on the exterior of your buildings.
Treating Drywood Termites
Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites colonize in wood above the ground and do not rely on soil to survive. They are often found in attic wood as they need very little moisture. Signs of drywood termites are flying swarmers and termite fecal pellets called frass.
How to Get Rid of Dampwood Termites
This type of termite prefers to live in decaying and damp wood. Unlike drywood termites, they need contact with water along with high levels of humidity to survive. Dampwood termites are the largest of the three types of termites found in Texas. Like drywood termites, signs of dampwood termites include flying swarmers and termite fecal pellets called frass. If you suspect dampwood termites, call A Five Star Termite & Pest Control!
Types of Termite Castes; Workers, Soldiers, Reproductive Swarmers & Queens
Termites are considered social insects that thrive in colonies. Each termite can be grouped into workers, soldiers, reproductive and queens. As the termite colony grows and matures, it will often send out winged females and males (swarmers). If the swarmers survive, they will find a new place to settle, and begin a new colony. Swarming season in Texas begins in late spring to early summer depending on the species.
How do Termites Get in My House?
Termites can gain entry through an opening that is as small as 1/32 inch wide. Common entry points include:
• Cracks in the foundation around plumbing
• Through expansion joints
• Inside hollow block walls
• Up the side of the foundation walls
Termite Inspections, Prevention, Control & Removal in San Antonio, Universal City, New Braunfels & Cibolo Texas
Termites can be difficult to spot. The key to termite control is stopping them before they get started! Termites will eat anything that contains cellulose. While termites prefer wood they will also eat paper, cardboard and carpet. Termites also need moisture to stop the colony from dying out. Remove potential sources of food and eliminate moisture buildup in and around your home to help decrease the risk of termites settling on your property. Taking these steps can help you minimize the risk of exposure to termites but there is no substitute for an effective Five Star Termite & Pest Control program. If you think you already have a termite infestation in your home or if you are concerned about the risk of termite infestation, contact the experts at A Five Star Termite & Pest Control today and ask about our comprehensive termite inspections, prevention and control programs.
