Introduction

Carpenter bee infestations can seriously damage your home’s structure. These wood-boring insects can turn your peaceful home into a noisy problem, causing extensive damage that worsens with each passing season. Hiring an exterminator carpenter bees pro is essential.

Your home is one of your biggest investments, so it’s important to have professional carpenter bee extermination to protect its value. While these bees may look harmless at first, their constant drilling creates networks of tunnels that weaken wooden structures and could lead to expensive repairs.

In this guide, we will discuss:

• The signs that indicate a carpenter bee infestation
• The true cost of ignoring these destructive pests
• Professional extermination methods and how effective they are
• Prevention strategies for long-term protection
• How to find the right exterminator for your needs

Professional carpenter bee control offers targeted solutions that DIY methods often can’t match. Certified exterminators bring specialized knowledge, professional-grade treatments, and systematic approaches to eliminate these persistent pests. They don’t just address current infestations – they help prevent future problems through expert guidance and preventive measures.

Did you know? A single carpenter bee can create tunnels extending several feet into wooden structures. These tunnels become attractive nesting sites for future generations, multiplying the potential damage to your home year after year.

Understanding Carpenter Bees and Their Threat to Your Home

Carpenter bees (Xylocopa spp.) are robust insects measuring approximately 1 inch in length. You’ll recognize them by their distinctive shiny black abdomen and yellow-and-black thorax. Unlike their cousin the bumblebee, carpenter bees display minimal hair on their abdomen, giving them a glossy appearance.

These wood-boring insects create intricate tunnel systems in wooden structures through their distinctive nesting behavior:

• Precise Entry Points: They drill perfectly circular holes measuring ½ inch in diameter
• Complex Galleries: Female bees excavate tunnels up to 6 feet long
• Annual Expansion: New generations often reuse and expand existing nests

Carpenter bees differ significantly from termites in their wood-destruction patterns:

• Carpenter bees create clean, smooth tunnels
• They don’t consume wood – they excavate it
• Their damage patterns follow a specific direction
• You’ll find visible wood shavings beneath entry points

These insects target various wooden structures on your property:

• Deck posts and railings
• Wooden siding
• Roof eaves
• Window frames
• Outdoor furniture
• Unpainted or untreated lumber

The structural impact of carpenter bees intensifies when multiple generations inhabit the same location. Their tunneling weakens load-bearing wooden components, compromises structural integrity, and creates entry points for moisture and decay. The presence of carpenter bee galleries can also attract woodpeckers, leading to additional damage as these birds attempt to feed on bee larvae.

Identifying a Carpenter Bee Infestation in Your Home

Early detection of carpenter bee activity helps prevent extensive structural damage to your home. Here are the key signs that indicate a carpenter bee problem:

1. Perfect Entry Holes

• Look for round, half-inch diameter holes in wooden surfaces
• Holes appear precisely drilled, with clean edges
• Common locations include fascia boards, deck railings, and wooden siding

2. Sawdust Evidence

• Fresh sawdust piles beneath wooden structures
• Yellow-brown wood shavings around entry points
• Stains on exterior walls from bee excrement

3. Visible Bee Activity

• Carpenter bees hovering near wooden surfaces
• Males patrolling territory around nesting sites
• Increased bee presence during spring and early summer

4. Audible Signs

• Buzzing sounds within walls or wooden structures
• Scratching noises from tunneling activity
• Distinct sounds most noticeable during quiet periods

5. Physical Damage

• Wood splitting near entry points
• Weakened structural elements
• Multiple holes appearing in close proximity

Regular inspection of your property’s wooden elements helps identify these signs early. Check eaves, decks, porches, and wooden furniture, particularly during spring when carpenter bees become most active.

The Costly Consequences of Ignoring a Carpenter Bee Problem

Neglecting a carpenter bee infestation can lead to severe financial consequences for homeowners. The damage these persistent wood-boring insects cause extends far beyond simple cosmetic issues.

Structural Damage Impact:

• Wood beams weakened by extensive tunnel networks
• Compromised structural integrity of load-bearing elements
• Deterioration of deck supports and railings
• Damaged fascia boards and roof eaves

Hidden Costs of Moisture Problems:

• Water seepage through carpenter bee entry holes
• Development of wood rot in affected areas
• Growth of harmful mold and fungi
• Increased energy costs due to compromised insulation

The repair costs escalate dramatically when carpenter bee damage goes unchecked. A simple repair job of $200-$300 can quickly balloon into thousands of dollars when structural elements require replacement. Many insurance policies don’t cover damage from carpenter bees, leaving homeowners to bear the full financial burden.

Property Value Impact:

• Reduced curb appeal from visible damage
• Lower property valuation during home inspections
• Potential deal-breakers during property sales
• Additional costs for emergency repairs

The presence of carpenter bees can also create a chain reaction of problems. Their tunnels attract woodpeckers, causing additional damage as these birds attempt to feed on carpenter bee larvae. This combination of issues compounds repair costs and extends the timeline for complete restoration of affected areas.

DIY vs. Professional Extermination: Which is More Effective?

Many homeowners attempt DIY carpenter bee control methods to save money. Let’s examine popular DIY approaches and their effectiveness:

Common DIY Solutions

• Carpenter Bee Traps: Wood blocks with pre-drilled holes attract bees into chambers they can’t escape from
• Insecticide Sprays: Over-the-counter sprays targeting wood-boring insects
• Natural Repellents: Citrus oils, almond oil, or tea tree oil applications
• Wood Treatments: Painting or staining exposed wood surfaces
• Physical Barriers: Mesh screens or steel wool in existing holes

Limitations of DIY Methods

• Traps only catch a small percentage of the bee population
• Store-bought sprays often lack the strength to penetrate deep tunnels
• Natural repellents require frequent reapplication
• Incorrect application can push bees deeper into wood structures
• Risk of injury from ladder work and bee encounters

Safety Concerns

DIY pest control presents several risks:

• Improper chemical handling can harm people and pets
• Allergic reactions to bee stings during treatment
• Falls from heights while treating elevated areas
• Incomplete treatment leading to recurring infestations
• Structural damage from incorrect hole-filling techniques

Effectiveness Issues

DIY treatments typically address surface problems without reaching nest galleries. A single missed tunnel can lead to:

1. Continued wood destruction
2. New colony establishment
3. Extended carpenter bee activity
4. Multiple treatment attempts
5. Higher long-term costs

The success rate of DIY methods varies significantly based on:

1. Infestation severity
2. Property access points
3. Treatment timing
4. Application technique
5. Product quality

While DIY solutions might seem cost-effective initially, they often require multiple attempts and can result in ongoing property damage when carpenter bees aren’t fully eliminated.

The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Exterminator for Carpenter Bees

Professional exterminators bring specialized expertise and proven solutions to your carpenter bee problem. Here’s what you get when you hire a qualified pest control expert:

1. Advanced Equipment and Professional-Grade Products

• Access to commercial-strength insecticides not available to the public
• Specialized tools for precise application and treatment
• Professional-grade safety equipment to protect your family and property

2. Expert Knowledge and Experience

• Accurate identification of carpenter bee species and behavior patterns
• Deep understanding of wood construction and structural vulnerabilities
• Ability to spot hidden damage and potential entry points

3. Comprehensive Treatment Approach

• Systematic inspection of your entire property
• Custom treatment plans based on infestation severity
• Strategic placement of treatments for maximum effectiveness
• Documentation of problem areas and treatment locations

4. Time and Cost Efficiency

• Quick identification and targeted treatment
• Reduced risk of property damage from incorrect treatment methods
• Prevention of recurring infestations
• Professional warranty coverage for treatments

5. Safety Considerations

• Proper handling of chemical treatments
• Compliance with local pest control regulations
• Protection of beneficial insects in your garden
• Safe removal of active nests and larvae

Professional exterminators also provide detailed reports of their findings and treatments, helping you understand the extent of the infestation and necessary steps for long-term protection. Their expertise extends beyond simple pest removal, encompassing structural assessment and preventive recommendations specific to your property.

What to Expect When You Hire an Exterminator for Carpenter Bees?

A professional carpenter bee extermination starts with a thorough property inspection. Your exterminator will:

• Walk the perimeter of your home, examining wooden structures
• Check eaves, fascia boards, and deck areas
• Inspect wooden furniture and decorative elements
• Document all entry holes and nesting sites
• Take photos of damaged areas for assessment

During the inspection process, exterminators use specialized tools to:

• Measure the depth of carpenter bee tunnels
• Assess structural integrity of affected wood
• Identify active vs. abandoned nests
• Detect hidden damage through moisture meters
• Map out the full extent of the infestation

You’ll receive a detailed report highlighting:

• Current Damage Assessment: Number of active nests, depth of tunnels, and severity of wood damage
• Risk Evaluation: Potential structural concerns and areas vulnerable to future infestations
• Treatment Recommendations: Specific methods needed for your situation
• Cost Breakdown: Itemized pricing for treatment options and repairs

The inspection typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on your property size and infestation severity. Your exterminator will explain their findings and answer questions about the treatment process before proceeding with any pest control measures.

Understanding the Treatment Process: How Exterminators Get Rid of Carpenter Bees?

Professional exterminators use specialized methods to effectively eliminate carpenter bee infestations. Here’s how they tackle the problem:

Primary Treatment Methods:

• Application of insecticidal dust directly into entrance holes
• Residual spray treatments on wood surfaces
• Targeted spot treatments for active nesting sites

The most effective approach combines multiple treatment strategies. Insecticidal dust reaches deep into the galleries where carpenter bees nest, affecting both adult bees and larvae. The dust adheres to the bees’ bodies, spreading throughout the nest system.

Eco-Friendly Alternatives:

• Botanical-based insecticides
• Natural pyrethrin treatments
• Non-toxic barrier applications

Treatment timing plays a crucial role in effectiveness. Exterminators typically apply treatments during early morning or late evening when carpenter bees are most likely to be inside their nests.

Advanced Treatment Features:

• Long-lasting residual protection
• Weather-resistant formulations
• Targeted application methods to minimize environmental impact

Professional-grade treatments penetrate wood surfaces more effectively than store-bought options, creating a protective barrier that deters future nesting attempts. These specialized formulations remain active for extended periods, providing continued protection against carpenter bee activity.

Many pest control companies now offer green treatment options that balance effectiveness with environmental responsibility, giving homeowners peace of mind about both their property protection and ecological impact.

Sealing Entry Points After Treatment: A Crucial Step in Preventing Reinfestation

Sealing carpenter bee entry holes is a critical defense against future infestations. These persistent insects often return to their previous nesting sites or create new galleries near existing ones.

Essential steps for effective hole sealing:

• Fill existing holes with steel wool or copper mesh
• Apply wood putty or wood filler to completely seal the openings
• Sand the filled areas until smooth
• Paint or stain the repaired sections to match surrounding wood

The timing of sealing matters – you’ll need to wait until all bees have emerged from their galleries before sealing the holes. This typically occurs after treatment has taken full effect, usually within 24-48 hours.

Pro tip: Inspect the sealed areas regularly for signs of new activity. Carpenter bees might attempt to create new entry points near the sealed holes. Quick identification and response to new holes prevents the establishment of additional nests.

Proper sealing techniques combined with professional treatment create a robust barrier against carpenter bee re-entry. This two-pronged approach significantly reduces the likelihood of recurring infestations and protects your wooden structures from further damage.

Follow-Up Visits & Prevention Strategies Offered By Professionals

Professional carpenter bee exterminators implement comprehensive follow-up programs to ensure long-term protection for your home. These scheduled visits serve multiple purposes:

1. Monitoring Treatment Effectiveness

During these visits, exterminators will:

• Check for new bee activity
• Assess previously treated areas
• Evaluate wood damage repairs

2. Seasonal Prevention Measures

Exterminators also carry out seasonal prevention measures such as:

• Conducting spring inspections before peak bee activity
• Making preparations in the fall for overwintering bees
• Applying wood treatment solutions

Professional exterminators apply preventive treatments during follow-up visits to create lasting protection. These treatments include:

1. Residual Barrier Sprays

Exterminators apply residual barrier sprays to potential nesting sites. This treatment provides protection lasting 3-6 months and is safe for household members.

2. Wood Preservatives

Specialized sealants are used to treat exposed wood surfaces, providing UV resistance and moisture protection barriers.

Your exterminator will customize a prevention schedule based on:

1. Property size
2. Previous infestation severity
3. Local carpenter bee populations
4. Surrounding environmental factors

Regular professional visits help identify early signs of returning carpenter bees. Exterminators adjust treatment strategies based on seasonal patterns and bee behavior changes, ensuring your home maintains protection against future infestations.

Choosing The Right Carpenter Bee Exterminator For Your Home

Selecting a qualified carpenter bee exterminator requires careful consideration of specific credentials and expertise. Here’s what you need to look for:

• State Licensing and Insurance: Verify current pest control licensing and comprehensive insurance coverage
• Specialized Training: Look for technicians with specific training in wood-boring insect control
• Industry Certifications: Check for memberships in professional organizations like NPMA (National Pest Management Association)
• Experience Level: Prioritize companies with at least 5 years of experience handling carpenter bee infestations
• Treatment Methods: Ask about their approach to eco-friendly and chemical treatment options
• Service Guarantees: Ensure they offer written warranties for their work

A reputable exterminator should provide detailed inspection reports and maintain transparent communication throughout the treatment process. Request references from previous clients who dealt with carpenter bee issues. You can verify their business standing through the Better Business Bureau and read customer reviews on trusted platforms.

The right professional will demonstrate knowledge about carpenter bee biology, behavior patterns, and local infestation trends in your area. They should be willing to explain their treatment methods and answer your questions about prevention strategies.

Questions To Ask Before Hiring An Exterminator For Carpenter Bees

Asking the right questions helps you make an informed decision when selecting a carpenter bee exterminator. Here’s your essential checklist:

• Treatment Methods: “What specific methods do you use to eliminate carpenter bees?”
• Safety Protocols: “Are your treatments safe for children, pets, and garden plants?”
• Service Guarantee: “Do you offer a warranty or guarantee for your carpenter bee treatments?”
• Timeline: “How long will the treatment process take, and when can I expect results?”
• Prevention Plan: “What preventive measures do you recommend after treatment?”
• Experience: “How many carpenter bee infestations has your team treated this year?”
• Insurance Coverage: “Does your insurance cover potential damage during treatment?”
• Follow-up Services: “What follow-up services are included in the treatment package?”
• Emergency Response: “Do you provide emergency services if carpenter bees return?”
• Documentation: “Will you provide detailed reports of the treatment process and recommendations?”

These questions help establish clear expectations and ensure you receive professional, reliable service for your carpenter bee problem.

Preventive Measures Against Future Carpenter Bee Infestations

Protecting your home from carpenter bees requires a proactive approach. Here are proven prevention strategies to keep these wood-boring insects at bay:

Surface Treatments

• Paint or stain exposed wood surfaces
• Apply specialized wood sealants annually
• Treat wood with citrus or almond oil as natural deterrents

Structural Modifications

• Replace damaged or soft wood with hardwood alternatives
• Install metal or vinyl siding over vulnerable wooden areas
• Use pressure-treated lumber for outdoor structures

Regular Maintenance

• Inspect wood surfaces every spring and fall
• Fill existing holes with steel wool and wood putty
• Sand and refinish weathered wood surfaces

Environmental Controls

• Remove dead trees and stumps near your property
• Keep woodpiles at least 20 feet from structures
• Create alternative nesting sites away from buildings

Professional Prevention Tips

• Schedule annual pest inspections
• Apply professional-grade preventive treatments
• Install physical barriers like metal flashing

Early Warning Signs to Monitor

• Watch for sawdust accumulation
• Listen for buzzing sounds in walls
• Check eaves and fascia boards regularly

These prevention methods work best when combined and implemented consistently. You’ll notice carpenter bees prefer bare, weathered wood – maintaining protected surfaces significantly reduces their attraction to your property. Professional pest control services can help develop a customized prevention plan based on your home’s specific vulnerabilities and local carpenter bee activity patterns.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Investing In A Professional Exterminator For Carpenter Bees?

The value of professional extermination extends far beyond immediate pest control. Professional exterminators bring expertise, specialized equipment, and proven treatment methods that protect your home’s structural integrity and market value.

Here’s why investing in professional carpenter bee control makes financial sense:

• Prevention of Costly Repairs: Professional treatment stops wood damage before it requires expensive structural repairs
• Long-term Protection: Expert solutions provide lasting defense against future infestations
• Peace of Mind: Licensed professionals ensure safe, effective treatment without risking your family’s health

ApoloXPest Control: Your Trusted Carpenter Bee Expert

ApoloXPest Control stands out as the region’s premier carpenter bee extermination service. Their certified technicians use advanced treatment methods and eco-friendly solutions to eliminate carpenter bee infestations effectively.

What sets ApoloXPest Control apart:

• Comprehensive Inspections: Thorough property assessments identify all infestation points
• Customized Treatment Plans: Solutions tailored to your specific situation
• Guaranteed Results: Written warranties on treatments and workmanship
• Preventive Strategies: Expert guidance on long-term protection
• Safety First: EPA-approved products and methods that protect your family and pets

The company’s proven track record includes thousands of successful carpenter bee treatments across residential and commercial properties. Their technicians receive ongoing training in the latest pest control techniques, ensuring you receive cutting-edge solutions for your carpenter bee problems.

Investing in professional exterminator carpenter bees services through ApoloXPestControl protects your home’s value and provides lasting peace of mind.

EPA Guidelines on Carpenter Bee Control National Pest Management Association Resources University of Kentucky Entomology Research on Carpenter Bees PennState Extension: Carpenter Bee Management UC IPM Guidelines for Wood-Boring Insects American Wood Protection Association Standards Journal of Economic Entomology: Carpenter Bee Studies Building Code Requirements for Wood Construction ApoloXPest Control – Carpenter Bee Services Occupational Safety and Health Administration – Pest Control Guidelines

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Do you see small 1/2 inch diameter holes in your home’s siding, your deck, a wooden play structure, a pile of lumber or a stack of firewood? Is a single bee entering and emerging from the neat entrance hole, or hovering around the entrance? You probably have discovered a carpenter bee nest, drilled into the wood in or around your home.

Carpenter Bee Prevention, Treatment – Where and when to look for Carpenter Bees

Here’s the ideal spot for a carpenter bee nest:

• Unfinished wood (or wood where the finish has worn or cracked)
• Uneven wood (once again, worn, cracked, splintered, prior carpenter bee nest sites)
• Soft wood (redwood, cedar, pine…etc.)
• Wood located in direct sunlight

When are carpenter bees most active?

Carpenter bees begin to become active in April, peak in activity in May and then gradually decline until they drop off of the radar in October.

Carpenter Bee Activity Chart Based on Google Searches

What do carpenter bees look like?

Carpenter bees are large, as bees go, and have a shiny abdomen. They are loners. You won’t see multiple bees emerging from and entering into a carpenter bee nest. In this way they are unlike yellow jackets, honey bees, bumble bees and other insects that establish colonies.

Carpenter Bee Prevention, Treatment – Are carpenter bees a problem?

When we think of bee problems, we often think of getting stung. As you pass near the entrance hole of a carpenter bee nest, the bee may fly about aggressively and look dangerous. It’s all an act! The good news is that you’re very unlikely to get stung by a carpenter bee. The males cannot sting, and the females need to be provoked in order to sting.

So, what’s the problem with carpenter bees?

Unlike termites, carpenter bees don’t eat wood. They just drill their neat hole for a nesting place to raise their young. They’ll drill about an inch directly into the wood, and then make a 90 degree turn to follow the wood grain for another six inches. The female then subdivides the long part of the tunnel into about 6-10 compartments, laying an egg in each compartment, then stocking it with pollen to feed the newborn.

Direct Damage Caused by Carpenter Bees

Compared to termites, and even carpenter ants, that 6-inch carpenter bee hole does not cause much damage to the wood… at least directly. But here’s the problem: Next year, another carpenter bee will find that exposed, abandoned nest, move in and expand the nest. Bees that appear in subsequent years will continue to expand the nest. Now what began as a small hole becomes a gradually expanding network of tunnels, potentially breaking through into your home. And, a site that is inviting to one carpenter bee will be inviting to others. Additional holes are drilled, nests that will gradually expand.

Indirect Damage Caused by Carpenter Bees

So, you have this gradually expanding network of tunnels in your home’s siding, deck or play structure. Now add to this the indirect damage. The tunnels invite moisture, resulting in wood rot. Furthermore, wood peckers, sensing carpenter bee activity beneath the surface will do what wood peckers do best: Begin pecking at the wood, digging through to capture and eat the bee inside. You could end up with a wood surface that is totally splintered and destroyed!

Carpenter Bee Prevention, Treatment – How to discourage carpenter bees in the first place.

Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to discourage carpenter bees. Just smooth and paint all exposed wood with a coat of exterior paint or a polyurethane finish. It’s important to prepare the wood before painting. Caulk any cracks, fill any divots, make it very smooth. If there are carpenter bee holes from previous years, shove some steal wool into these, seal them off with an exterior wood filler, sand and paint.

Note: Make sure there are no living carpenter bees in the holes before you seal them. Why? They’ll continue digging into the wood until they finally tunnel to freedom–perhaps the inside of your house?! You’re pretty safe sealing carpenter bee holes in non-carpenter bee season (see above chart).

Also, be sure to seal wood that you cannot see including the back side and underside of boards.

Cover firewood piles and stacks of lumber.

At this point, just to make sure you’ve made all the potential carpenter bee nest sites “unfriendly” to carpenter bees, call in a professional for a thorough carpenter bee and pest inspection:

Call ApolloX Pest Control

(888) 499-7378

We’re trained, licensed and experienced to locate all the potential and current nesting sites of carpenter bees. In addition, we’ll inspect your home for other pest issues (mice, rats, cockroaches, carpenter ants, termites, moths, bed bugs and wood boring beetles…just to mention a few).

Why go through the prevention sequence multiple times throughout the pest season, and potentially experience costly pest damage because you missed one of the common pests?

Carpenter Bee Prevention, Treatment – Exterminating Carpenter Bees

So, let’s say you’re at the height of the carpenter bee season (the month of May), and you see one or more carpenter bee nest holes on or around your home with bees flying in and out and buzzing you every time you get close. Here’s a line of attack:

1. Immediate Control: If there are many bees, you could use an aerosol insecticide to establish an immediate control of the situation. But note that this is only a temporary solution that lessens the problem and makes the longer term fix more manageable.
2. Long Term Solution: The most effective insecticide for carpenter bees comes in the form of a dust. Apply insecticide dust to the entrance of the carpenter bee nest. Do this while the bees are inactive. The best times are at night, and during their off-season (see the chart above).
3. Sealing the Nest: Once you’re convinced the carpenter bee is dead (you might wait a few days after applying the dust), fill the tunnel with steal wool or a dowel and wood glue, apply exterior wood filler to smooth out the entrance, sand the wood and paint the surface with an exterior paint or polyurethane finish.

Carpenter Bee Prevention, Treatment – Conclusion

Carpenter bees, though not dangerous to humans, and not as damaging as termites, wood beetles and carpenter ants, can still destroy a wooden surface and underlying structure. It’s best to take preventive action by making the wood surfaces on or around your home or business “carpenter bee unfriendly”. And, regularly inspect for the presence of carpenter bees, especially during the month of April – June, and take quick action if you discover carpenter bee activity.

Be safe and sure, get a professional home or business pest inspection.

Call ApolloX Pest Control

(888) 499-7378

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If you see tiny pinholes in your homes flooring, paneling, siding, furniture…any wooden objects within your home, do not ignore it. This is one of the main signs that you may have a wood beetle infestation. The pin holes indicate that wood beetle larvae are burrowing around inside the wood, consuming it and silently, gradually, turning the wood to powder. If the wood makes up a support beam, what ever it is supporting is going to eventually come down, whether it be a ceiling, a floor or a wall. (Image credits: Clemson.edu)

How to Get Rid of Wood Beetles – Their Destructive Power

Next to termites, wood beetles are the most destructive pests to all types of wooden structures and furniture. But whereas the main variety of termite in the Northeastern U.S., the subterranean termite, is mostly attracted to moist wood, the various species of wood beetles include both dry and moist wood eaters, in addition to hardwoods and softwoods. If it’s made of wood, there’s a wood beetle that will consume it and turn it into powder.

How to Get Rid of Wood Beetles – What Are They?

Due to their ability to turn wood into powder, many wood beetles are referred to as “Powderpost Beetles”. There are 3 main types of wood beetles:

• Anobiid Wood Beetles: These prefer moist wood, and are attracted to both softwood (a buildings support timbers), and hardwood (furniture, flooring…etc.)
• Lyctid Wood Beetles: These prefer hardwoods, which would include paneling, flooring and furniture. They most often infest stored lumber that has not been properly kiln dried.
• Bostrichid Wood Beetles: These infest seasoned softwood and hardwood, especially unfinished floors, window sills, and furniture.

How to Get Rid of Wood Beetles – Focus On the Pin Holes

Having described and pictured the wood beetle varieties, the truth is you may never see one — even if you have a wood beetle infestation. This is because wood beetles do all the damage while hidden in the wood as larva, and only emerge for a short time as adults, and then, usually at night. The adults mate, lay eggs in the exposed pores of the wood, the eggs hatch, and the larvae bore into the wood where they may dine for as long as 12 years before emerging as adults to repeat the cycle.

For this reason, the only evidence you are likely to see, even of a huge wood beetle infestation, is the presence of tiny pinholes in the wood. You might also notice the fine powder they push out of the wood through the pin hole openings. This powder is referred to as “frass”. (Image Credits: UCDavis.edu)

How to Get Rid of Wood Beetles – Prevent Them From Entering Your Home In the First Place

Wood beetles are not likely to fly into your home and cause an infestation. The most likely way they enter a home is through wood that is already infested and then brought into the home.

Thoroughly inspect all wood you bring into your home. Look for the presence of pin holes. Suspects are furniture you bought at an antique store, imported wood flooring that was not properly kiln dried due to lack of regulations, lumber that has been stored outside, firewood brought into the home and left stacked by the fireplace for long periods of time (bring in only what you intend to burn that day).

When you purchase lumber, inquire as to the preparation of the lumber and the kiln drying process. As a rule, the temperature needs to be raised to about 150 degrees for 6 hours to ensure there are no living wood beetle larvae within the wood.

How to Get Rid of Wood Beetles – What If You Notice Pin Holes?

The presence of pin holes in the wood indicates a wood beetle infestation. You won’t see damage immediately. But all the while you leave the problem untreated, the larvae are within the wood slowly turning it to powder. And, they’re spreading to other areas of your home. Remember, their life cycle can be as long as 12 years, during which time the integrity and value of your home is plummeting.

So, don’t leave the problem unattended. Begin by hiring a licensed professional wood beetle exterminator to inspect the damage and look for additional signs of infestation. You need an accurate assessment. Then, you need an effective strategy for dealing with the infestation. This may involve pesticide, fumigation or disposal and replacement of all infested wood–even if it means tearing out the wooden floor you recently installed and starting over. It’s much less costly in the long run to replace a floor than years later to deal with a whole house infestation. And, the official report of the pest control specialist may help you to get the project paid for by the company that originally manufactured and installed the infested wood.

How to Get Rid of Wood Beetles – Prevent, Inspect and Take Action

The presence of wood beetles in your home is a serious issue.

If you suspect you have a wood beetle problem,

Call ApolloX Pest Control – Immediately

(888) 499-7378

The post How to Get Rid of Wood Beetles appeared first on Pest Control.

The subterranean termite is the most common termite infesting homes and businesses in the Northeastern U.S., so we’re focusing on subterranean termite prevention in this article. Termites cause nearly 3 times as much damage to wooden structures and crops as fires in the U.S. Put more exactly, fires account for about $11 billion annually in structural damage. Termites account for about $30 billion! So, “Termite Prevention Basics” begins with how to prevent the subterranean termite.

Subterranean termites, as the name indicates, live under ground and do not like to be exposed to the light. They’ve developed an ingenious method of staying underground, yet managing to get into the structure of a home. To do this, subterranean termites create a mud tunnel connecting their underground habitat with the structure they want to enter. In this way, they can literally enter a wooden structure without leaving their natural earthen habitat.

And here is the basic clue to preventing subterranean termites: Keep things dry. No moisture = no mud = no tunnel = no slick freeway entrance into the structure of your home or business = no expensive termite damage.

You see, whereas carpenter ants eat the kind of food we humans eat, and only create galleries for living in the wooden structure of a home, termites eat wood. Carpenter ants will usually leave the wooden structure fairly intact, minus their smooth galleries. Termites will turn the wooden structure into a crumbling mess, and, if untreated, actually bring the entire house down!

Termite Prevention Basics – Avoid the Moisture That Attracts Termites

Consider and systematically eliminate the many ways that moisture can get into or under your home. Here are a few examples, but be creative and thorough as you consider your own home. We’ll start from the roof and work our way down:

• Leaky roof, missing shingles, poor moisture barrier under the shingles.
• Leaky gutters sending rain run-off down your homes siding and into the wooden framework.
• Leaky plumbing. Inspect all pipes regularly. Do you have a boiler? Inspect that system also. Drippy faucets, running toilet, drain pipes – include these.
• Trees and shrubs rubbing up against the side of your house, or overhanging your home, dripping…water!
• Mulch touching the siding of your home. The mulch gets soaking wet during the rain. Guess what happens to the siding? The termites may not even need much of a mud tunnel to enter into your home.
• Poor drainage: Does the ground around your house slope towards your house? Reverse the slope. Sounds like a big project, but not as big as replacing your home!
• Check the garden hose connection for leakage.
• Next time it rains, watch where the rain water flows. Make sure it flows away from your home.

Termite Prevention Basics – Seal Any Openings

In their winged reproductive phase, termites mate, fly to a location where there is moist, welcoming wood (they can sense the presence of moist wood–probably smells like your favorite meal). Then they enter the building, quickly drop their wings, and burrow into the moist wood to lay eggs and create a new colony of wood eating termites.

Where are openings likely to be found? Again, let’s start from the roof and work our way down:

• Missing shingles.
• Openings in your homes siding, from warped or broken siding.
• Poorly caulked window and door frames.
• Cracked foundation.
• Again, be creative. If there’s an opening or crack, no matter how small, it’s a great entrance for a winged termite.

Note: If your home is completely sealed and you notice termite wings on your windowsill or around your home, it may be an inside job! The colony may already be present in your home.

Termite Prevention Basics – Now, Inspect Your Property

Don’t stop with your home. Inspect your property, and any adjacent wooded areas. Here’s what to look for:

• Wood piles: Keep them 20 feet from your home and garage, and out of direct contact with the ground. Create a moisture barrier or raise them up on some kind of water-proof support. This includes both firewood and lumber.
• Do your neighbors have termites? If so, it’s only a matter of time before they find their way into your home.
• Dead rotting trees, tree stumps, roots. These create perfect conditions for a termite colony which can then send winged emissaries into your home to create colony #2 or more.

Note that in nature, termites are doing a great service by breaking down dead wood so that it can re-fertilize the soil. You just don’t want them doing this with your home…which they will if they get a chance!

Termite Prevention Basics – Regularly Inspect Your Home or Business for Termites

No preventative measures are completely fail-safe. It’s best to inspect your home and property at least annually for the presence of termites. Look for their mud tubes, for crumbling wood and for termite wings. We suggest hiring a professional termite control expert like ApolloX Pest Control. A professional is trained and experienced to recognize signs of termite infestation that you might miss. And, if the infestation is there hidden away, and you leave it unattended for any period of time, there could be big damage – much more expensive than the cost of a professional termite inspection.

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Termite Prevention Basics – What If It’s Too Late?

So, you suspect or discover the presence of termites in your home. Now what?

First you need to exterminate the termites. Completely locate every part of your home that could possibly be infested. How can you be sure you’ve found ALL the termite locations in your home? Best to hire a professional. It’s not worth “guessing” or “hoping”. You probably wouldn’t do that with a fire hazard. Remember that termites are 3 times as destructive as fire.

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Second, you could use a termiticide. However, there’s a safety issue for humans and pets here, which is the reason that many jurisdictions require a licensed professional to apply a termiticide. Again, contact ApolloX Pest Control.

You could try a non-toxic remedy. There are many articles on the internet suggesting such remedies. However, do you really want to risk your home to a solution you found on the internet written by someone who has no accountability to you – a solution that MAY not work? The stakes are pretty high.

Call ApolloX Pest Control Now

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Experience peace of mind knowing that the problem has been eliminated.

Save a huge expense in repair costs.

In fact, be assured that you know exactly what needs to be repaired. We’ll let you know where the the termite damage is located in your home and what needs to be repaired.

We’ll  even suggest a future termite prevention strategy based on your particular building and location.

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View our mini-site HowToGetRidofTermitesCT.com

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Carpenter Bee Control – How do you know you have carpenter bees?

If you see a solitary bee hovering in the vicinity of an unfinished wood structure, it’s possible that bee is a carpenter bee. Does the bee dart at you? It’s likely the carpenter bee male, attempting to protect his territory. It will be a half inch to an inch long with a thick body and a shiny, hairless abdomen.

Inspect the area where you notice the bee most. Is there evidence of sawdust? If so, you’re very close to the carpenter bee’s home. Now look for a small, nearly perfectly round hole a little smaller than the size of a dime. It will look like it was professionally drilled into the wood. Watch more closely and you might see one solitary bee entering and exiting the hole. Chances are you’ve discovered the carpenter bee’s home.

Carpenter bees drill their home into a wooden structure, then stock it with food (pollen) and lay their eggs on the food. The eggs hatch, larvae emerge, consume the food, and continue to develop into the next generation of carpenter bees. Unlike termites and powderpost beetles, carpenter bees do not eat wood.

Carpenter Bee Control – Where do carpenter bees most love to drill their home?

Carpenter bees love unfinished, unprotected wood. Likely places are an unfinished wooden fence on your property, a wooden play structure, a deck that perhaps was finished a few years ago, but is due for re-finishing due to exposed bare wood.

Carpenter Bee Control – How do you prevent carpenter bees?

The best carpenter bee prevention is a good paint job. Carpenter bees are unlikely to drill through a couple good coats of paint. If the area has not been painted recently and is wearing, exposing bare wood, it’s time to repaint. For best results, use an oil based or polyurethane paint. Remove any severely damaged wood and replace it with chemical pressure-treated wood.

Carpenter Bee Control – What problems can they cause?

Carpenter bees are generally non-aggressive. Only the female can sting, and then only when handled. The biggest problem is the hole the bee has drilled into the wooden structure. The next generation of carpenter bees will expand that hole, digging deeper into the wood. Each hole leaves more wood exposed to the elements and potentially to other wood boring insects.

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Many termite species need moist areas to survive. Their colonies can be traced directly to the ground under your home. You can observe the mud tubes they create between the ground and the wooden parts of your home they feed on. These are subterranean termites.

Drywood termite ninjas, on the other hand, are silent, hidden. They’re not tied to colonies located underground. You won’t find the tale tale mud tubes of subterranean termites. There won’t necessarily be evidence of termite colonies in wood piles and old tree stumps on your property. In fact, your property and the area under your home may be certified completely termite-free. Yet, these stealth ninjas are present.

Drywood Termite Ninjas – Where do they hide?

Hidden in places people don’t naturally look for termites are these silent drywood termite ninjas. That piece of furniture you just bought through a classified ad, that delivery of lumber for the construction of a new addition on your home, the wood flooring you purchased and are preparing to install. Any of these can contain drywood termites, and you’d never know until the wood was installed in your home. In fact, while we most often think of looking for evidence of termites in the basement or crawlspace under the home, drywood termite ninjas could have an established colony hidden in the attic–how often do you go up there and inspect for insect damage!

Drywood Termite Ninjas – What damage do they create?

Once they’re in your home, these silent drywood termite ninjas emerge at night from the wood flooring, the furniture, your new addition, and they move into other areas of your home. Their presence expands as they slowly consume your house board by board.

Drywood Termite Ninjas – What are the signs of an infestation?

The most obvious sign you have drywood termite ninjas, is their fecal hexagonal fecal pellets. These will be at least 1mm long and collecting at the base of some wooden object. Look in dry areas of your home such as the attic, areas around your windowsills, in a closet. The fecal pellets will contain very little moisture due to the fact that the drywood termites extract all the water from their feces, which helps enable them to live in areas of very low moisture.

Another sign is to tap solid looking wood and listen for a hollow sound. Drywood termite ninjas eat wood from within, so if a solid wooden table leg or solid wood flooring sounds hollow when tapped, it may in fact be hollow, being consumed from the inside out!

Imagine what paint looks like when the wood beneath it has been consumed. It begins to look bubbly. That’s another sign of the presence of these termites.

Drywood Termite Ninjas – What to do if you observe signs of an infestation?

Call a professional termite exterminator immediately. You have no way of knowing how many areas of your home have been infested. This species of termite ninjas is extremely hard to eradicate.

Call ApolloX Pest Control

(888) 499-7378

Inspiration for this article: http://killtermitesyourself.com/drywood-termites/

The post Drywood Termite Ninjas- The stealth termite invader. appeared first on Pest Control.

It’s Spring at last! North-easterners are emerging from their homes to enjoy the outdoors. The first place we all notice is our yard and garden. Which plants made it through the Winter? We begin to clean up the Winter damage and design our garden.

Guess who else is emerging this Spring? Carpenter ants and termites. The way you clean-up and re-plant your landscape this Spring will make a great difference whether or not these pests find a way into your home.

What is pest-free landscaping? We’re not talking about a landscape that is free of insects. In this article, we use the term “pest-free landscaping” to refer to landscaping that doesn’t encourage pests to enter into your home.

Pest Free Landscaping – Soil and Mulch

One common Spring gardening activity is the re-application of a fresh layer of mulch and bark dust. Mulch and bark dust help keep the soil from drying out during the hot Summer and therefore promote healthy plant growth. But this moisture quality in mulch becomes a great environment for termites and carpenter ants. When the mulch layers pile up over the years until they are in contact with the wooden siding on your home, this becomes a major highway for carpenter ants and termites to enter into your home.

It’s best to keep mulch at least 4″ below the place where your home’s concrete foundation ends and the wooden structure begins. In addition, don’t let the mulch layer thicken beyond 3″. Excessive mulch can harm plants while becoming a super hotel for carpenter ants and termites.

Pest Free Landscaping – Raised Gardens

Do you have a raised garden against the side of your home? If so, you’ll be watering it throughout the Summer, keeping the soil moist so the plants can grow. However, this moist soil right against your house can harbor carpenter ants and termites. They also love the wet wooden sides of the planter. It’s pretty easy for them to tunnel right through the planter and into your home! Make sure there is an insect-proof lining between the planter and your home. Concrete or metal is a good choice.

Pest Free Landscaping – Trees and Large Plants

One great highway pests use to enter your home is trees and large plants that are in direct contact with the house. Eliminating this natural insect highway will go a long way toward preventing a carpenter ant or termite infestation. Inspect the area around your house for any tree branches that are in direct contact with the structure or overhanging the roof. Trim them back. Do you have vines growing up the siding? As attractive as they look, you might want to eliminate them.

Pest Free Landscaping – Thick Ground-cover

That dense ivy growing right up to the walls of your home keeps the soil moist, which in turn encourages carpenter ants and termites. Cut it back a few feet from your home so the soil immediately around your home can dry out, providing a natural barrier against these pests.

Pest Free Landscaping – How well did you do?

If you see any of the following signs, you might revisit your pest-free landscaping strategy.

Carpenter Ant warning signs:

• Swarmers (Winged ants)-This is a sign that the colony is looking to expand and look for a new nesting site
• Sawdust (fine wood shavings that the Carpenter Ants push aside to create nesting sites, known as “frass”)
• Crunching noises behind the wall
• Seeing more than 10 ants a day throughout your house, or seeing any ants inside your house in the winter months

Termite warning signs:

• Mud tunnels or mud tubes. These are typically found on the sides of foundations
• Swarmers (Winged Termites)-This is a sign that the nest is near
• Damaged wood-The wood will appear to be crushed, or you will see tunnels. Galleries will be filled with soil and chewed wood, while ant tunnels are very clean

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Drywood termites are pale to dark brown in color and about 1/4 to 1/2 inches long. Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites do not need moisture. They don’t need to have their base colony underground nor do they need to create mud tubes from the ground into your home. 

This creates two issues:

• Harder to discover: First, without the tale-tale mud tubes characteristic of subterranean termites, or a highly visible winged invasion, drywood termites may not be as easily discovered in your home.
• Greater mobility: Second, drywood termites are more mobile. Here’s a possible scenario: You purchase a beautiful new wooden cabinet, or an antique wooden table. Unknown to you, the wooden furniture is infested with a colony of drywood termites. They were already hidden in the furniture before you brought it into your home. Once inside your home, the drywood termites easily move from the furniture into the framework of your house.

Like subterranean termites, drywood termites destroy wood and can cause irreparable damage to your home.

Drywood Termites – Prevention

One of the best ways to prevent drywood termites from entering into your home is to thoroughly inspect all wood that you bring into your home. This includes all wooden furniture and wood used in remodeling jobs (i.e. wooden flooring to replace an existing floor, new wooden siding, the wood used in a new addition to your home…etc.). You can ask for a certificate of termite inspection when purchasing wood that will enter your home.

Termites hate citrus. It drives them away. When cleaning any exposed wood inside your home, use citrus-based cleaners. 

Drywood Termites – Discovery

As we said, drywood termites may be harder to discover than subterranean termites–but not impossible. Look for the dark fecal pellets they push outside their living area. These will eventually form small piles.

Do not assume that the drywood termites have only remained in the new wooden furniture. By the time you discover them, they could have already moved out of the furniture and into the wooded structure of your home. If you suspect drywood termites, call a licensed termite exterminator to confirm the presence of the termites.

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Drywood Termites – How to rid your home of an infestation.

There are basically 2 ways to exterminate drywood termites: Chemicals and Heat

• Chemicals: These will usually be in the form of poisonous gas used to fumigate all or part of your home. Chemical injections can also be used, especially if your are absolutely certain the infestation is well localized in a smaller area. It is highly recommended that you call on the services of a licensed termite exterminator to ensure chemicals are safely employed.
• Heat: As with bed bugs, heat also kills drywood termites. The infested area will need to be tented, then brought up to the required temperature for the recommended period of time. The advantage of using heat is that there is no toxic gas or liquid substance in your home. The disadvantage is that if improperly applied the heat may be ineffective. You want to ensure that all the termites are killed, for any stragglers could continue to spread and do further damage to your home.

Drywood Termites – Better safe than sorry.

Considering the damage drywood termites can cause to your home (they’re like a smoldering fire), it’s a good idea to schedule a periodic termite inspection by a licensed termite exterminator every few years.

Call ApolloX Pest Control

(888) 499-7378

Article Inspiration From: http://killtermitesyourself.com/how-to-kill-drywood-termites/

The post Drywood Termites – How to discover and exterminate. appeared first on Pest Control.

Flying termites (the reproductive form of termites) in or around your home is one of the signs a termite colony is near. Flying termites originate in a nearby existing colony and are looking to breed and start a new termite colony. For example, there’s a termite colony in an old dead tree stump on or near your property. The flying termites originate there, and then enter your home looking to establish a new colony in your home. 

Locate Termite Colony – Make sure it’s termites and not carpenter ants.

First, make sure it’s not a flying ant (similar looking). Flying ants have 3 segments to their bodies while flying termites have only two segments.

Locate Termite Colony – Where the flying termites might appear in your home.

The first visible sign people often see is termite wings on a window sill or along a baseboard. What’s happening here? Flying termites drop their wings after mating.

Locate Termite Colony – Where flying termites go to lay their eggs.

Where do flying termites go after mating? They’re looking for a place to lay their eggs and start a new colony. Here’s were some detective work comes into play. If we’re talking about subterranean termites (the species most common the the Northeastern U.S.) the flying termites will drop their wings and then burrow into the mud to lay their eggs. Look for the tale tale mud tubes they create as they burrow into the ground, or move from the ground up into the wooden structure of your home.

Locate Termite Colony – Follow the mud tubes.

What are the most likely locations to discover the mud tubes? Look in a dark moist location (the crawl space under your home is a likely candidate). If there is a water leak dripping underneath your home, so much the better for the termites! Look in cracks in your home’s foundation. Look underneath your home’s siding. Check your basement.

Once you’ve located their mud tubes, you’re close to the termite colony.

Locate Termite Colony – What if you can’t find any mud tubes?

If you’re unable to locate any mud tubes, this doesn’t necessarily mean that there is no termite colony in or near your home. It’s best to schedule a professional termite inspection:

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Locate Termite Colony – Once you discover the mud tubes, what’s next?

The best methods to exterminate a termite colony are liquid termiticide sprays and baiting systems. Spray the termiticide around the foundation of your home. If you discover holes or cracks in the walls, spray there too. Spray where the mud tubes are located. Place termite bait in the soil around the foundation of your home spacing the bait in intervals of about one foot.

Locate Termite Colony – 4 primary dangers to avoid.

The first of 4 dangers is that the toxic termiticide and bait might come in contact with yourself, your children or your pets. 

The second danger is that you may think you’ve located and eliminated the termite colony, when in reality, you have not. What if there is more than one colony? What if there is a colony on or near your property waiting until next year to send it’s winged ambassadors back into your home?

The third danger is that, while you may have eliminated the termite colony, there is damage to your home that is in critical need of repair. For example, an important foundation support may have been compromised.

The fourth danger is that conditions remain in your home favorable to the establishment of another termite colony. There may be a hidden water leak that dampens your home’s foundation or the ground beneath your home.

Locate Termite Colony – Better safe than sorry.

Only a licensed professional termite exterminator can give you the peace of mind that all the termites have been safely located and exterminated, that there are no conditions in your home that favor termites and what damage needs to be repaired.

Call ApolloX Pest Control

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Consider what needs to happen to restore a home to health after a fire? Termites are like a silent fire, and even after they’ve been “put out”, your home will need attention. Though termite damage may not be as evident as fire damage, it can be as critical. 

Ideas, thanks to: http://killtermitesyourself.com/how-to-kill-flying-termites/

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Not all termites are the same, and not all are  commonly found in every part of the United States. Imagine you’re visiting your retired parents in Florida, or your grandchildren on the West Coast. Wouldn’t it be important to them if you were able to recognize the presence of termites and perhaps save them the high cost of dealing with termite damage?

This article will help you recognize the different types of termites and a little about their habits.

Termite Types – Where in the U.S.?

Subterranean Termites: These can be found just about anywhere in the U.S. Their name comes from the fact that the live underground, in dirt, and even create dirt tunnels in order to stay hidden as they move from the soil into the foundation, framework and siding of a home. If you live in the Northeastern U.S., this is the variety of termites you are most likely to encounter.

Dampwood Termites: These are primarily found along the Pacific Coast and in the Southwest and Florida. They mostly eat wood that is damp and rotting. As such wood exists more in the forest or an abandoned wood or brush pile, rather than a solid man-made structure, these termites are more of a nuisance than some of the other varieties.

Drywood Termites: These are found primarily in the Western, Southeast and South-Central U.S. They’re much more destructive to property than dampwood termites. Living in wood that has low moisture content, they are more likely to be transported in the wooden objects like furniture, and from there into the structure of a home or commercial building.

Formosan Subterranean Termites: Enjoying warmer climates, these have been discovered in Hawaii, Louisiana, Texas, Virginia, Alabama, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee and California. Nicknamed “super termites” these are the most aggressive termites and the soldiers will defend their nest by releasing a white toxic liquid. They have the ability to consume wood more rapidly than the other termite species. A type of subterranean termite, they’ll create a mud tube from the soil to the wooden structure they intend to consume. But they have the ability to create a “carton” or enclosed nest environment in a structure vs. having to return to the soil.  

Termite Types – How they look.

Subterranean Termites: Reproductive males and females can be winged (primary) or wingless (secondary or tertiary). Each can produce new offspring. The bodies of primary reproductives, also called swarmers or alates, vary by species from coal black to pale yellow-brown. Wings may be pale or smoky gray to brown and have few distinct veins. Swarmer termites are about 1/4 to 3/8 inch long. Secondary and tertiary reproductives in the colony are generally white to cream-colored and may have short wing buds.

Credits: https://insects.tamu.edu/extension/bulletins/b-6080.html

Dampwood Termites: The Pacific dampwood termite is the largest termite native to the U.S. Pacific dampwood termite kings, queens and alates can exceed 1 inch in length, including their wings. They are dark brown and have brown wings. Nymphs measure about 1/2 inch and are cream colored with spots on their abdomens. Soldiers measure about 3/4 inch and are cream colored with dark-colored heads that range from reddish-brown to black.

Credits: http://www.termites.com/types-of-termites/pacific-dampwood-termite/

Drywood Termites: The reproductives are winged (alates or swarmers) or wingless males and females that produce offspring. The primary reproductives, also called swarmers or alates, vary in body color from dark brown to light yellowish tan. Their wings may be almost clear to smoke gray, and have few distinct veins in them. Swarmer drywood termites are about 7/16 inch long, including the wings. Credits: http://ag.arizona.edu/pubs/insects/az1232/

Formosan Termites: Alates of formosan termite are yellowish-brown and 12 to 15 mm long (0.5 to 0.6 inch). There are numerous small hairs on the wings of these comparatively large swarmers. Soldiers have an orange-brown, oval-shaped head, curved mandibles and a whitish body.

Credits:  http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/urban/termites/formosan_termite.htm

Termite Types – Their habitat.

Subterranean Termites: Moisture is important to subterranean termites, which have very little resistance to dehydration. To survive, they must maintain contact with the soil (their primary moisture source) or other above-ground moisture sources, such as in structures with defective plumbing or guttering. Termites foraging for food above ground protect themselves with shelter tubes, which are sometimes called mud tubes. The tubes may be thinly constructed or large and thick-walled to accommodate many termites moving vertically between the soil and the food source. This construction material also is found lining the galleries built in wood being attacked and aids in identifying termite-damaged wood. Shelter tubes often are used to bridge masonry or other objects, allowing termites access to a food source (wood) above ground. 

Credits: https://insects.tamu.edu/extension/bulletins/b-6080.html

Dampwood Termites: Dampwood termites can cause significant damage. They rarely infest sound wood. However, once a Pacific dampwood termite colony has infested wood with high moisture content, it can move into adjoining areas of dry wood. This Pacific termite does not require soil contact. However, wood-to-ground contact in a home’s construction often leads to dampwood infestations. Homes built over or near water, or with wood buried in the ground, are more likely to be infested.

Credits: http://www.termites.com/types-of-termites/pacific-dampwood-termite/

Drywood termites often establish nests in roof materials and wooden wall supports accessed under eaves. However, despite being capable of surviving on low wood moisture they are also found in wood associated with a water source such as a leaky pipe or water heater. Dead wood accumulating around buildings and homes often serves as a source of infestation.

Credits: http://ag.arizona.edu/pubs/insects/az1232/

Formosan Subterranean Termites: A mature Formosan colony can consume as much as 13 ounces of wood a day (ca. 400 g) and severely damage a structure in as little as three months. Because of its population size and foraging range, the presence of a colony poses serious threats to nearby structures. Once established, Formosan subterranean termites have never been eradicated from an area.

Credits:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Formosan_subterranean_termite

Termite Types – When found in your building, what to do?

View our other articles on termites to learn ways to prevent an infestation.

If you see termites or signs of termites in a home or commercial building, you’ve basically got a 5-alarm fire happening. Both in the case of a fire, and a termite infestation, if you do nothing, the building will eventually collapse. In the case of termites, you won’t see smoke or flames, and the damage will take longer to progress, but floors will begin to sag and eventually completely descintegrate beneath your feet!

If it was an actual fire, you wouldn’t hesitate to call the fire department. In this case, you have another call to make.

Termite Types – Who to call when any type of termite is discovered?

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