Termites

Termites

Termite Facts:

Sub Terrarium Termites

Worker Termites

  • Termites have been found across 70 percent of the world and have survived environmental changes for more than 250 million years, adjusting to most any climate.
  • Termites are found in every state in the United States except Alaska.
  • Termites feed on cellulose, which can be found in high moisture wood.
  • Americans spend more than $7 billion every year treating for termites and repairing the damage they cause.
  • Termite damage can go undetected for years.
  • Termite damage is not covered by most homeowners’ insurance policies.
  • Some termite species need only a space one-sixteenth of an inch wide – the thickness of a piece of paper – to enter a home.
  • Signs of a termite infestation include wood damage, such as small holes in wood; crumbling drywall; sagging doors; swarms of termites (usually occurring in spring); and piles of discarded wings.
  • There are five major types of termites throughout the United States: Eastern Subterranean termites, Western Subterranean termites, Desert Subterranean termites, Formosan Subterranean termites and Drywood termites.

Castle Technicians are Termidor Certified ProfessionalsCastle is a Certified Termidor Professional. Visit our Services page for information on our spot and full termite treatments which come with full 1 Year and 10 Year Warranties.

 

Termite FAQ’s

What are termites?
Termites are wood-destroying insects. Their presence dates back to the dinosaurs. While they play an important role in nature, experts estimate they cause $7 billion of property damage each year.
Are there different kinds of termites?
Yes, the three major kinds of termites in the United States are dampwood, drywood and subterranean. Dampwood termites commonly live in heavily forested areas of the country as they prefer wet wood; while, drywood termites, much more rare in the United States, prefer extremely dry wood. Subterranean termites (which is what we have here in Texas) require moist environments, live mainly in the soil and are the most destructive species.
How do you recognize termites?
Depending on your geographical location, termite swarms should be visible in the early spring. Termite swarms can be confused with flying ants. Telltale signs of termite infestation include soft wood in the home, mud tubes in the interior or exterior of your home (often near the foundation), and darkening or blistering of wood structures.
How much damage do termites cause?
The truth is there are two kinds of homes: those that have had termites and those that will get them. Termites work 24 hours/7 days a week at damaging the wood in and around a structure. And, while they cause $7 billion in damage each year, there is no reason to think that termites cannot be controlled.
What can I do to prevent termites?
The most important thing is to remove the conducive conditions termites need to survive. Termites love moisture; avoid moisture accumulation around the foundation of your home. Divert water away with properly functioning downspouts, gutters and splash blocks. Reduce humidity in crawl spaces with proper ventilation. Prevent shrubs, vines and other vegetation from growing over and covering vents. Be sure to remove old form boards, grade stakes, etc., left in place after the building was constructed. Remove old tree stumps and roots around and beneath the building. Most importantly, eliminate any wood contact with the soil. An 18-inch gap between the soil and wood portions of the building is ideal. It doesn’t hurt to routinely inspect the foundation of your home for signs of termite damage.
Will my homeowners insurance cover termite damage?
Homeowners insurance does not cover termite damage.
What is the most effective type of termite treatment?
Castle termite specialists are committed to providing highly effective treatment options for all pest issues. The most effective type of treatment depends upon the severity of the infestation, the species of termite, and the location and construction of the home or building. Our trained and licensed pest control technicians can assess each infestation separately and recommend a rigorous treatment plan that will effectively control the termite population.
How difficult are termites to treat?
Termites are nearly impossible for homeowners to treat on their own however, Castle’s pest control professionals have the training, expertise and technology to eliminate termite infestations.
Are the products used dangerous to kids and pets?
All professional pest control products have been registered for use by the EPA. When they are applied according to label instructions by technicians who have been trained and licensed to use them, they pose virtually no risk.
Are termites active above ground and/or below ground in the winter months?
Termites are less active in the winter but are still present in the soil. They actually move lower in the soil to avoid the colder temperature at grade or turf levels. If termites have already gained access to a home, they will continue to forage for cellulose but at a slower pace during colder periods of the year.
Why should someone hire a professional instead of attempting to control their pest problems by themselves?
Just as you wouldn’t prescribe medicine for yourself or drill your own cavities, you shouldn’t attempt to control termites or other pests on your own. The products and the expertise offered by Castle’s trained professionals far surpass what a homeowner could do on their own. Leave it up to our experts for peace of mind. Why risk it?

Think you’ve got termites at your home or business? Contact us today to set up a FREE assessment or to schedule an appointment.

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