How Dangerous Are Termites?

A termite infestation can be a major concern for home and property owners. The pests can cause billions of dollars worth of damage to a home every year. Luckily, most termite pests aren’t dangerous to people. They’re not venomous, and their bites won’t itch or transfer disease.

Drywood Termites

Drywood termites are a common problem in southern California and other parts of the country. In contrast to subterranean termites, which build their colonies underground, drywood termites thrive in hard, dry wood found inside a house. They eat wood and cellulose, causing structural damage. While a homeowner may detect the presence of drywood termites by the appearance of fecal pellets or when they swarm, inspections are best left to professionals. This is because the accuracy of detection, the extent of an infestation and whether wood replacement is necessary depend on a thorough inspection.

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites are one of the most dangerous types of termites because they tend to eat away at any wood that has contact with the ground or soil around it. This is a major threat to the structural integrity of your home and can cost you thousands of dollars in damages. In some cases, subterranean termites can enter your home through even the smallest cracks in the foundation. If you’re a homeowner and are concerned about an infestation, don’t hesitate to contact a professional pest control company for a consultation and recommendations. These professionals can help you identify the type of termite, determine the severity of the infestation and provide a safe, effective treatment plan.

Termite Swarms

In the spring, termites develop wings to swarm in search of a new home. The wings help them escape the mud tubes of their parent colony and find a suitable habitat. After swarming, the alates will mate and start new colonies. The queens and kings of each new partnership are responsible for helping the colony grow. As the colony grows, it requires more and more cellulose to feed its growing population of workers and soldiers. Eventually, termites will eat their way through the wood in your house and create mud tubes to run from the ground to the wooden sections of the structure. If you suddenly notice a large number of white-winged termites on the outside of your home, peeling back mulch or breaking up a stump or log, this is a sign of swarming and needs to be dealt with by a professional. Otherwise, the termites will continue to thrive and cause more damage to your home and property.