Termite Identification & Prevention

What You Need To Know About Termites

Termites are destructive pests that can go unnoticed on your property until significant damage has been done. It’s important to know the facts about termites so that you can protect your home or business from costly termite damage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Termites

What are termites?

Termites are insects belonging to the order of Blattodea and the infraorder of Isoptera. They are eusocial creatures, meaning they have ranks among their colonies; these ranks are typically divided into reproductive termites, soldier termites, and workers. Most termites appear similar with soft oval-shaped bodies that range in color from tan to light brown, and they are known for their strong jaws that they use to chew through wood. Termites will carve galleries in wood that appear much like mazes.

What types of termites should I be aware of?

While there are many species of termites around the United States, there are only two that you need to worry about in this area – the subterranean termite and the drywood termite. In this article, we'll give you some more information on each distinct species.

As their name implies, subterranean termites prefer to build their colonies underground. When traveling above ground, these pests create mud tubes that allow them to travel from one destination to another while being completely sheltered and safe from the risks of drying out. Mud tubes are incredibly distinctive and easy to spot around your Del Rio yard if you have a large infestation of these pests. Subterranean termites are known for creating the most damage out of any termite species.

Drywood termites, on the other hand, prefer to live in hard, dry wood. They don't create nests under the soil and will obtain all the water they need from tunneling through dry wood.

Are termites dangerous?

Termites can be very dangerous to host on your property. They constantly chew through wood twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, and can seriously damage any wooden structure on your property. 

Below are some signs you may have a termite infestation:

• Wood that starts to appear visually damaged or breaks away easily
• Frass (termite wood shavings) that appears around baseboards or along window sills
• Tight-fitting or stuck doors and windows
• Sinking floors or ceilings
• Bulging walls or walls that have peeling or bubbling paint on them

All of these termite damages can lead to structural collapse when left uncontrolled. This situation is very dangerous and very expensive to repair, which is why proper termite control is essential for your property. Gold Star Exterminators - Del Rio can help.

What are some signs of a termite problem?

Termite infestations often start without being noticed at first. However, there are some early warning signs that you can look out for that indicate these pests might be causing problems around your property.

• Discarded termite wings on your property, especially around termite swarming season
• Termite frass throughout interior areas
• Mud tubes around exterior areas or ones that cross onto the foundation of your structure
• Hearing rustling sounds in the walls
• Seeing signs of termite damage

Keep in mind that if you see one or more of these signs on your property, you need to contact Gold Star Exterminators - Del Rio as soon as possible for termite treatment solutions.

How do I get rid of termites?

The best, most effective way to eliminate termites is to combine professional termite control assistance provided by Gold Star Exterminators - Del Rio with easy termite prevention tips. Start by sealing up cracks around your structure's windows, doors, and foundation, remove long grass and woodpiles from outdoor areas, and fix moisture issues that damage wood or create damp environments around your property. 

The combination of prevention and professional help will eliminate all active termite problems and prevent future termite issues, keeping your property safe from the damage termites bring year-round.