WHAT ARE TERMITES?

Termites are an insect that look similar to ants and are often confused with them. Surprisingly, they are more closely related to cockroaches. Termites’ colors can be various shades of white, brown, and black, they have six legs, and also have soft, straight bodies with straight antennae. They have two sets of wings that are equal in size that they will stack on top of each other when they’re not using them. Their sizes can range from one-eighth of an inch to one inch long.Termites live in colonies which sizes can vary from only two termites (a king and queen) to over a million. Termites are considered one of the most destructive pests in the world. They like to live in warm, moist areas, and their favorite food source is wood— which is why they are so destructive. There are around 2,000 different species of termites in the world, and about 50 of those are found in the U.S. The most common ones found in homes are the Subterranean Termite, Damp Wood Termite, and Dry Wood Termite. Termites are found everywhere and are constantly causing destruction everywhere they go.

ARE TERMITES DANGEROUS?

Termites, while not known to carry any harmful diseases to humans, can be an allergen or cause asthma because of the irritating particles in termite nests as well as their shedded skin. Along with causing possible health risks like allergies and asthma, termites are undoubtedly one of the most destructive pests in the world. With around 50 different species, these pests are responsible for so much damage to homes, businesses, and other structures. There is an estimated 5 billion dollars spent on property damage due to termites. They love to eat wood, and start with the middle of the wood and work out. They can completely hollow out wood while still leaving the painted surface untouched; this makes them even more dangerous since they cause structures to become extremely unstable with no visible signs of anything being wrong. Ways to recognize the presence of termites is by checking your trees, looking for mud tubes that they use to get from their underground nest to the above-ground food sources, and by listening. When termites sense danger, they knock their heads against wood to warn the other termites. If while inspecting, you hear a slight knocking noise, you may be dealing with a termite infestation. Since these pests are so destructive, we highly encourage you to contact one of our professionals if you have a termite problem.

WHY DO I HAVE A TERMITE PROBLEM?

Termites need moisture in order to begin their infestation. Without moisture content in wood, you won’t have termites. Sometimes this means that the moisture is coming because the wood is touching the dirt. In other cases this means that there is poor ventilation in either attics or in crawl spaces.

HOW DO I GET RID OF TERMITES?

Termites are a very tricky pest to get rid of without the help of a professional. If you suspect that you have termites seek professional inspections. At Recon Pest Services, we understand your home is worth protecting. Allow us to come and do an inspection. We can help determine if you have termites and take proper steps to get rid of them. We have partnered with Sentricon to help offer a world-class service to keep termites out of your life for good.