Termite Identification & Prevention

Simply put, termites are a homeowner’s worst nightmare. They get into our homes, feed on structural wood and wooden structures, and are among the most challenging pests to control and prevent. Termites are social insects living together in colonies with hundreds of thousands of members or more. Termites are best known for being destructive. They feed on cellulose materials found in trees, wood, plants, and building materials like structural wood, drywall, and cellulose-based insulation.

When termites live outside, away from people and our structures, their feeding habits are beneficial. Termites help to eliminate dead trees, plant life, and decaying organic debris. It is only when termites invade our indoor spaces and homes that they become unwanted pests.

Termites aren’t a pest you need to worry about biting you; most people never actually come into direct contact with termites. However, termites regularly come into direct contact with our homes, where they can cause significant structural damage.

Termites are capable of entering our homes without notice. These silent invaders move into homes without fanfare and out of sight. Once inside, they move to and feed on wood located behind walls and under floors. Termite damage doesn’t happen overnight or even in a week; it can take many months or sometimes even years for termites to cause enough damage for their presence to be noticed by a homeowner.

Termites are particularly problematic in Fort Lauderdale because there are so many species that we need to guard our properties against. Also, our warm temperatures allow termites to remain active throughout the year. Any Fort Lauderdale property is at risk of being invaded by termites.

Termites that call our area home include:

• Eastern subterranean termites
• Drywood termites
• Formosan termites
• Oriental termites

Different kinds of termites have different wants and needs. Working with a professional to determine the species that have made themselves at home on your property is vital to successful treatment.

Subterranean termites like to nest under the ground. These termites have high moisture needs and nest in damp soil, and feed on older or water-damaged pieces of wood. Outside, subterranean termites nest under trees, leaves, tree stumps, and wood piles. These termites live underground in their nests and travel to and from their food sources through the soil or mud tubes they have created. Traveling underground or within mud tubes allows them to retain moisture and avoid predators.

The Formosan termite is a type of subterranean termite. They are unique and difficult to control because they live together in huge colonies, and in addition to nesting in the ground, they create carton nests on roofs and behind the walls of structures. Their carton nests help them maintain their moisture needs and put them near their found food sources.

Drywood termites prefer to feed on dry, sound pieces of wood. They nest within the pieces of wood they are using as a food source. These termites can enter our homes at and above ground level and inside pieces of wood or wooden structures.

Termites in Fort Lauderdale threaten every one of our homes. Being proactive is essential to guarding your home and bank account against termites. Partner with a local and experienced pest professional to control and successfully prevent termites. Mitchell Pest knows how destructive termites are, understands the behaviors of termites in our region, and knows how to guard properties against their damage. We offer high-quality termite treatments customized to meet your home's unique needs. For more information about our full-service termite control options, reach out now.

To prevent issues with termites, put the following prevention tips into action:

• Make sure your property has good drainage.
• Cut back landscaping and shrubbery so the sun can reach the soil around your property and keep it dry.
• Remove dead trees and wood debris from your property.
• Carefully check over your home’s exterior (foundation to roofline) and repair any cracks or gaps that you discover.
• Remove water-damaged wood from the exterior and interior of your home.
• Use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture within your home.
• Ensure your home’s crawl spaces, kitchen, and bathrooms are well-ventilated. 

To learn more about pest control options for your home, please reach out today and speak with one of our helpful professionals.