What are termites?
Termites are wood-eating pests; they feed on cellulose found in trees and other organic materials. These insects are one of the few organisms able to convert cellulose into a usable food source. Though their feeding habits are eco-important, in our homes, those same feeding habits are destructive.
The most widespread termite in Texas and across the country is the subterranean termite. These termites build their nests under the soil, have high moisture needs, and prefer to feed on wet or decaying wood.
Two species of subterranean termites living in Round Rock, Texas, and our surrounding areas are the native subterranean termite and the Formosan termite. Native subterranean termites are the most widespread species and therefore are responsible for the largest portion of the damages these pests cause each year.
Formosan termites live in colonies with millions of members. Due to their large colony size and aggressive feeding habits, they can cause a lot of damage in a relatively short period, as little as six months. Something unique to Formosan termites is that they create both underground nests and aerial nests. Reach out to us today for pest control in Round Rock and surrounding areas.
Are termites
dangerous?
Termites are natural recyclers that help eliminate decaying trees and other organic materials. However, they are a severe threat to our homes and other structures. The most popular building material is wood, but it is also, unfortunately, the termite’s primary food source.
A big reason termites are so dangerous is that they move in and out of our homes and feed on structural wood without being noticed. They hide their presence inside pieces of wood behind wallboards, siding, flooring, and trim. Termites can be present for months or years before homeowners notice a problem with these pests.
Any homeowner living in Texas needs to remain vigilant against termites and constantly guard their homes against them.
Why do I have a termite problem?
Native subterranean termites become a problem inside our homes after finding their way inside through tiny cracks or crevices they come across as they are out foraging for food sources. They gain access to our homes by moving through the soil, mud tubes they create above the ground, or pieces of wood making direct contact with the ground. Because these termites have high moisture needs, their presence not only means wood on your property is being damaged but an overall moisture problem.
Like native subterranean termites, Formosan termites can find their way into our houses on their own. These termites can enter our homes both at ground level or aerially. Additionally, Formosan termites are transported from place to place with the help of people inside things like landscape timbers, mulch, wood flooring, and wood pallets.
Where will I find termites?
Termite colonies divide their members into groups or “castes”: workers, soldiers, and reproductives (kings and queens). Workers are the termites that leave their nests on a daily basis to go out and forage for food; they are also the termites that are in your home feasting on its structural wood.
Inside houses and other structures, termites are attracted to areas of moisture and water-damaged pieces of wood. Structural wood and wooden joists near pipes, windows, doors, and roofs tend to be most susceptible to termite damage.
Outside, native subterranean termites and Formosan termites build these nests underground in areas of damp soil. Formosan termites also create carton nests above the ground. We often locate their aerial nests on the flat rooftops of buildings or behind wall voids.
How do I get rid of termites?
If you are currently dealing with a termite problem on your Round Rock or surrounding area property, or you want to prevent future issues with these pests, we are here to help. EvoFoam Pest Control understands how destructive termites are and will immediately remove these pests from your property. Your home is likely your most valuable possession; let us help you protect it from being damaged by termites and other common household pests. Reach out to us today to learn more about termite control in Round Rock, our one-time termite treatments, and our yearly annual inspections.
How can I prevent termites in the future?
Here are some helpful tips to help you prevent problems with destructive, wood-eating termites in Round Rock:
- Quickly repair leaky pipes and fixtures.
- Ensure your home has good ventilation to reduce excess humidity.
- Remove water-damaged wood from in or on your home.
- Repair cracks and other openings in your home’s exterior from the foundation to the roof.
- Remove excess wood and wood debris from your property.
- Avoid overwatering your lawn and gardens.
For effective home pest control and commercial pest control in Round Rock, reach out to us now!
