Contrary to popular belief, termites do not live in homes. Termites live in underground colonies, tunneling undetected through the soil into a structure, sometimes through mud tubes. Because of their subterranean nature, an infestation may go undetected for some time. But, there are warning signs of an active termite infestation including:
- Flying termites, called “swarmers” in or around your home or winged parts scattered around your doors or windows (most likely occurs in Spring)
- Mud tubes leading from the ground to a piece of infested wood or up the foundation walls
- Damage to wood or other cellulose materials (small holes)
Most termites in Rhode Island are eastern subterranean termites. They are highly destructive to douglas fir and other common softer building timbers. They can rapidly eat out the internal sections of structural timbers – devouring mainly the spring wood, and preferring to leave the harder summer wood sections. Infested timbers are often left as a thin shell with a honey-comb of layered hollow sections packed with moist soil. These termites love a moist dark damp environment – it is essential for their survival.
Do I need to worry about termites?
Termites are responsible for an estimated $5 billion of damage every year in the United States and more than 5 million homes have some type of termite problem. Because termite damage is not typically covered by insurance, repairs can be costly. It is estimated that 1 in 5 Rhode Island homes have or will have been attacked by termites.
Are you worried?
Debug offers two proven termite control options to protect your home: baiting and liquid treatments.
If you live in Rhode Island and think you have evidence of termites in your home, give Debug a call to request an inspection! We are a trusted and reputable Rhode Island pest control company.
