Termite Prevention Tips

There are two different types of termites that live in Southern Utah, Subterranean and Drywood Termites. These pests will destroy the wood on your home and it is important to inspect your home and property thoroughly for proper identification is the main key to control these pests. The process to treat these different kinds of termites is different for each type of termite and is very important to perform the proper treatment. 

Subterranean Termites:

These termites live underground and will build tunnels, referred to as mud tubes, to reach food sources. Like most other termite species, they feed on products that contain cellulose. Subterranean termites swarm in the spring, when groups of reproductive termites go off to start new colonies. Subterranean termites need contact with the soil to survive and live underground. They can build tunnels through cracks in concrete to reach the wood structures of you home. 

Drywood Termites:

Unlike subterranean termites, Drywood termites don’t need contact with soil to survive or any other water source. Drywood termites live in dry wood, hence their name, that may be above ground level. Drywood termites build colonies in structural wood, fence and utility posts, furniture, moldings, door and window frames, and so forth. Because termite workers can be difficult to identify, species are often determined based on geographical locations, location of colony, and/or type of wood damage. Most often homeowners find these termites by the piles of debris found in window seals and under location of infestation.

Termite Prevention Tips:

• Eliminate or reduce moisture in and around the home, which termites need to thrive.
• Repair leaking faucets, water pipes, and exterior AC units. 
• Repair soffits and rotted roof shingles.
• Replace weather stripping and loose mortar around basement foundation and windows.
• Divert water away from the house through properly functioning downspouts, gutters, and splash blocks.
• Routinely inspect the foundation of a home for signs of mud tubes, or uneven/bubbling paint and wood that sounds hollow when tapped. 
• Monitor all exterior areas of wood, including windows, door frames and skirting boards for any noticeable changes. 
• Maintain an 18-inch gap between the soil and any wood portions of your home.
• Consider scheduling a professional inspection annually. Wood-boring insect damage is not covered by homeowners’ insurance policies.
• Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your home. 

Signs of Termites:

• Quiet clicking sounds coming from the walls
• Flying termites/ swarming termites
• If you see White Ants (they aren’t ants they are most likely termites)
• Hollow sounding wood when tapped on 
• Mud tubes

Call Us:

If for any reason you feel you have termites in your home, please call and schedule an appointment so a Morgan technician can come and properly identify and solve any issues that are found. Don’t wait as the problem could get worse over time. If you have the littlest thought that you have termites call us at (435)673-9172.