Subterranean Termite Biology and their Control

Subterranean termites have inhabited the earth for more than 250 million years. They are tough, determined and highly efficient. They live in the soil, from just below the surface to many feet below ground. In nature, their role is to digest dead trees and return the nutrients they contain to the soil.

A Subterranean termite "queen" can live for decades and can produce thousands of eggs each year. Many of those offspring ("workers" and "swarmers") will themselves develop into kings and queens and break off to form new colonies. This means the reproductive potential of a colony is literally unlimited -- and so is the damage they can do to our homes and other wooden structures.

 

Subterranean Termite Damage

Termites damage wood by eating it. With the help of bacteria in their digestive systems, termites are able to break down cellulose (the material in wood that gives it its rigidity) into simpler carbohydrates that they can use for energy.

Over time, termites can cause enormous damage to houses and other wooden structures, necessitating costly repairs and even threatening the structural integrity of the building.

The picture on the right shows termite damage to a building's floor joist (the wooden member that supports the floor).

Luckily, termites go about their business slowly and steadily. In most cases, early detection and professional treatment can stop termites early on, before significant damage is done.

 

Wood Destroying Insect Inspection: $85.00

Wood Destroying Insect Damage Evaluation / Repair and Treatment Estimate: $125.00

Termite early warning signs

Some warning signs that you may have a termite problem include:

• Mud tubes connecting soil to wood
• Hollowed wood beneath a finished surface
• Discoloration behind paint or wallpaper
• Swarming termites, live workers or discarded wings

 

Subterranean Termite Control

Eliminex's skilled technicians will work to keep subterranean termites from ever attacking your home, or can effectively treat existing termite infestations, by employing state-of-the-industry prevention techniques. Our comprehensive termite extermination program combines four proven techniques to maximize effectiveness:

• Termite baiting for colony reduction, elimination, and monitoring using Advance
• Treatment of vulnerable wooden members
• Soil treatment under and around the home using Termidor
• Removal of conditions conducive to termite infestation, such as wood that is in contact with the ground

 

Other Wood-Destroying Insects

Termites are not the only insects that damage wood. Three of the most common insects in New Jersey other than termites that damage wood are:

• Carpenter Ants
• Powderpost Beetles
• Carpenter Bees

All of these insects have the potential to cause serious damage, and therefore should be treated by qualified professionals.

 

 

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