Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites have strict moisture requirements and feed exclusively on wood materials. These termite characteristics make it possible to prevent an termite infestation by eliminating the food and moisture resources from their environment.
These are a few practical pest control tactics designed to prevent termite infestation by modifying their habitat.

• Repair structural and plumbing leaks.
• Pull all mulch and landscaping back at least 6 inches from the foundation.
• Remove piles of trash and debris from around the home.
• Subterranean termites love dead tree stumps, remove them from the yard.
• Keep firewood stacked away from the structure.
• Make sure downspouts are long enough to direct water away from the foundation.
• Keep gutters clean.
• Avoid direct wood-to-ground contact when building porches or decks.
• Siding, brick veneer, or foam insulation should not extend below the soil grade.

Today, if you experience a subterranean termite swarm, the number of systems, application techniques and products available for termite control may be overwhelming. As your Pest Management Professional we at Ace Exterminators are well versed in understanding the different treatment products, brand names, application techniques, and the unique features each product has to offer.

Subterranean termites usually enter through cracks in the slab, utility conduits, expansion joints, and plumbing connections. A common problem is subterranean termites entering a structure between the foundation and brick veneer, stucco or expandable foam insulation that is below the grade level. This is a major problem because there is no external evidence of the termite presence until the damage becomes obvious. Wood structures in direct contact with the ground such as decks or porches invite termite entrance as well.

Most subterranean termite infestations begin from a colony of termites living in the soil.  Some infestations begin above ground and are called 'aerial infestations'.  These occur when either a termite king and queen begin a new nest or when foraging termite workers become isolated indoors and cannot return to the parent colony. These types of infestations are rare because they usually require extremely moist conditions year-round. Homes with flat roofs or chronic leaks are also at risk because when enough moisture is retained within the structure the termites can establish a colony. The constant moisture allows the termite colony to survive with no connection to the soil.

In order to establish new colonies, the subterranean termite performs a behavior known as "swarming".  This method of dispersal requires that the termites emerge from their colonies at certain times of the year when conditions are just right. The main swarming season for the subterranean termites in Oklahoma is from March through June. Subterranean termite swarmers are attracted to light which can be your first clue that you have a serious termite problem, when you see them flying toward windowsills and open doors. Termite swarming, whether indoors or outdoors is the first indication to homeowners that they have a subterranean termite infestation.

Don't Mistake an Ant for a Termite

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