Gardening

Little Bugs, Big Problems: Here's What You Need to Know about Termites

Cottage-Style HomeTermites conjure up terrifying images of swarms of insects consuming everything in their path. It is a homeowner's worst nightmare to even imagine that they may have an insect infestation. It is, however, a very probable scenario. There are over 2000 species of termites and they are found in most places in the world. Each year, about 5 billion dollars' worth of structural damage is attributed to these little critters.

They may cause a lot of fear and disruption in daily life. However, not many people know all that much about them. So to help you out, here is everything you need to know about termites:

General Knowledge

Contrary to their appearance, termites are closer cousins to the cockroach than ants. Termites are social creatures that live and work in colonies. These colonies are only formed once a queen joins the swarm. She is an integral part of the colony. These insects have three castes: workers, soldiers, and alates. Each of these classes has a specific function to provide to the colony. The workers are in charge of building the insects' mounds. The soldiers protect these structures from outside harm. The alates are reproductive termites that are responsible for the increase in population. The diet of these creatures consists of wood and other cellulose materials.

Most Common Types

The most common types of termites found in the United States are the Subterranean termites and the Drywood termites. The Subterranean species prefer to eat softer wood that is springy to the touch. They leave behind a honeycomb pattern in the wood that they consume. It is usually only the grain that is left. The Drywood termites will usually consume the wood that is present in your floors, furniture, and other structures. Once they have eaten the wood, it has a smooth, worn appearance. These types of termites are usually found in warmer climates.

Remedies

The most common method of termite treatment is to employ a pest control expert. This is because the eradication of these pesky creatures requires specialized skills. It is, however, extremely important to catch the infestation as early on as possible. Terminates can cause a great deal of damage in a short period of time. This is because they reproduce quite quickly. To ensure that your home will be as unaffected as possible, it is imperative that necessary action is taken as soon as possible. In the event that you suspect an infestation, contact your nearest pest authority for information. You can also browse through www.connorspest.com to get advice on the best course of action for your situation.

Termites can pose a serious threat to your property and your well-being. It is, however, a perfectly manageable problem. You should frequently get your house searched in anticipation of a termite invasion, and you should also monitor any wood structures or furnishings in your home for signs of damage. You should always consult a professional in the event that you are uncertain whether or not you are at risk from termite damage.

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