Beware of these Five Termite Species

There are over 2,000 different known termite species, and they vary is size, shape and even behavior. Unfortunately, they all have two things in common: their love for wood and ability to cause property damage. A single termite is not a problem, but  there is no such thing as a single termite because they live in colonies. Termites are known as the silent destroyers because of there ability to chew through flooring, wood, and even wallpaper undetected. By the time a homeowner actually realizes their home is infested with termites, the damage is already done. Each year, termites causes about $5 billion in property damage which is typically not covered by homeowners’  property insurance. In order to prevent a termite infestation, it is important to get your property inspected by professionals once a year. 

When the weather gets a little warmer, homeowners enjoy working in their gardens. Homeowners will purchase new soil, and place it near their home’s foundation. If you are under a termite contract, it is important to make sure that any new soil placed next to your home foundation is re-treated. The best way to avoid a termite problem is to prevent it with a Terminix Termite Control Plan. ~ Joe Martin, MS  – Terminix Vice President, Entomologist

There are 5 Termite Species that are important to protect against, especially in Louisiana:

1. Formosan Termites: These termites have the worst reputation of all of the termites species. They have tremendous appetites and are very aggressive. They form huge underground colonies with intricate mud nests. Because of their aggressive nature, they are difficult to control once they have infested a property. They are found in Louisiana, North Carolina, Georgia, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, California and even Hawaii.
2. Subterranean Termites: This termite species is the most destructive in the United States. They live in colonies that can grow up to two million termite members. They enjoy a moist environment that can be both underground or above ground. They are found in every single state but Alaska.
3. Drywood Termites: These termites infest dry wood and can often be found in roof materials and even wall supports. They do not require contact with soil like the Formosan or subterranean termites. They are found in states from North Carolina through the Gulf Coast and into the coastal areas of California.
4. Dampwood Termites: These termites like wood with high moisture content. They do not usually infest structures or building unless they have moisture. The Dampwood termites are found in Pacific coastal and adjacent states, the semi-arid southwest and southern Florida.
5. Conehead Termites: These types of termites are native to the Caribbean but were first introduced to the U.S. in 2001 and have ben found in Florida. These termites do not rely on underground tunneling to travel. They can forage on the ground like ants which also allows them to spread quickly.