Termites are one of the most destructive pests in the world, and they primarily affect homeowners. The first manifestation of termites at home might be deemed insignificant, but if they are not prevented immediately, they can be a severe problem. One of the most important things to understand is how termites get inside your home because it is the best way to prevent termite infestation. Read on to learn more about the different entry points of termites.
Different Entry Points of How Termites Get Inside Homes
Subterranean Termite Entry Points
Subterranean termites have underground colonies that can reach locations several feet above ground level by creating mud tubes. These termites typically infest homes at or below ground level. Subterranean termites commonly enter your home through wood-to-ground contacts like door frames, deck posts, and porch steps; they can also enter homes through cracks in the foundation or brick mortar.
Drywood Termite Entry Points
Infestations of drywood termites usually start when swarmers (alates) find a crack in the wood of your house, excavate a little nest, and seal themselves within. They then begin laying eggs to start their colony. This colony can expand to a scale that can seriously harm the wood in your house in a matter of years. The typical entry point for this colony of termites is the attic which guarantees an array of dry wood, a food for them. You may have a dry wood termite infestation if you observe abandoned wings, little mounds of sawdust, or even pellet-like droppings.
Dampwood Termite Entry Points
This type of termite needs wood and moisture to survive and enter homes. In an outside environment, they burrow into wet, broken wood rotten trees, but inside homes, they take habitat in wooden structures that are sodden from leak-up pipes or waters that fall into your home through rainfall. Like all termites, dampwood termites eat the cellulose in wood and use this material to construct their homes.
Signs of Termites Infestation
Termites primarily consume wood and paper for food, putting homes at risk of permanent structural damage if infested. Any presence of the following signs indicates that termites might be present in your home:
- Sawdust
- Droppings (frass)
- Mud Tubes
- Musty Doors
- Swarmers
- Discarded wings
How To Prevent Termites From Entering My House?
There are many ways to prevent termite infestation. However, it all depends on the severity of the infestation and the presence of termites in your home. The first prevention you can do is to ensure that all holes in your house are sealed up because termites can enter through crevices on the walls. Second, you must check for any presence of water leaks at your home because termites are attracted to moisture. Third, as homeowners, you should be aware of the common signs of termite infestation and regularly check the possible presence at your home. Lastly, immediately call an exterminator if you see any termite indication at your home to prevent more significant damage.
Get Rid of Termites with McCauley Pest Control
Say goodbye to your termites and pest problems, and keep your home protected with McCauley Pest Control. Since 1983, we have been committed to delivering high-quality pest control service. The health of your property matters the most to us, so you can count on us to take utmost care in handling your pest problems at home. Discover more about our services today; contact (925) 634-1255 or send us a message.