Termite Identification & Prevention Guide

What are termites?

Termites are common species of insects here in Greater Austin, Texas that feed on dead plants and trees, helping to naturally speed up the process of decay which returns nutrients into the soil. Subterranean termites are those termites that nest underground rather than in the wood they use to feed their colony. They travel back and forth from their nest to their food each day. Subterranean termites become a problem for people when they find their way into your home or business to feed on its structural wood.

Termites are social insects, living and working together to care for their vast colonies. A termite colony divides itself into castes: workers, soldiers, and reproductives. Workers gather food and care for the colony, kings and queens are the only members that reproduce, and soldiers use their strong mandibles to defend their colony.

Are termites dangerous?

Due to the sheer amount of structural damage they cause, termites are dangerous pests. Each year, termites are responsible for over five-billion dollars in damage to properties across the United States – damage that most homeowners' insurance does not cover. Termites work around the clock to feed their colonies year-round. Subterranean termites are attracted to water-damaged wood and their presence suggests you may also have moisture issues in your home or business.

Why do I have a termite problem?

Things like leaky pipes, fixtures, and clogged gutters allow excess moisture to build up around the outside of your property and seep into its walls. This moisture attracts termites as they travel through the soil while foraging for food. Termites most often find their way into properties through deck posts, door frames, wood shingles, and porch steps or supports that come into contact with the ground. Termites will travel to your home or business from a nest located on your property or a neighboring property.

Where will I find termites?

Termites can be found in their underground nest or inside of the wood they are feeding on. They travel back and forth between their nest and food source through the soil or through the mud tubes they create. Inside, termites invade and feed on the structural wood located above ceilings, below floors, and behind walls. The only time you will see a termite is typically during a swarm. A termite swarm is when hundreds of winged reproductives emerge from a colony to mate and create new colonies.

How do I get rid of termites?

At Roberts Termite & Pest Control, we have been providing high-quality pest control here in Austin, TX for over 55 years. Our technicians use environmentally friendly products and advanced techniques to get rid of termites and other common pests. Through quality customer service and flexible scheduling, we work with you to meet your unique pest control needs. Learn more about our termite control services or schedule a free consultation by reaching out to Roberts Pest Control today!

How can I prevent termites in the future?

In addition to our professional termite control services, the following prevention tips will help you to prevent problems with termites in your home or business:

• Remove fallen trees, tree stumps, and excess piles of organic debris from your home or business.

• Replace mulch with crushed rock, rubber mulch, or other non-cellulose based options.

• Use dehumidifiers in basements and ventilate crawlspaces.

• Seal cracks in the foundation and eliminate soil-to-wood contact on your property.

• Regularly clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water from pooling around your foundation.

• Place weatherstripping around windows and doors to prevent water from seeping into your walls.