Termite Identification & Prevention

What are termites?

Termites are soft-bodied insects that live in colonies with distinct social classes. They belong to the scientific classification Blattodea, and they are known for their small size yet incredibly destructive nature.

Most termites appear similar and have tan or light-brown colored bodies, and they don’t grow much longer than half an inch long. While there are several species of termites around today, the most common ones that invade human structures are the subterranean termite and the drywood termite. Our pest control services in Melbourne, FL, can help you with proper identification.

Are termites dangerous?

While termites might not introduce bacteria or pathogens to properties, nor will they bite humans, they are still incredibly dangerous to have around your property. A termite problem can result in serious and costly damage to the wood in your home or business and, when left untreated, may result in the risk of structural collapse. It is essential to get rid of termites as soon as possible if you want to avoid expensive, dangerous damage to the wood on your property.

Why do I have a termite problem?

Termite problems are typically encouraged by your property having lots of wood for these pests to chew through, moist and humid conditions, water-damaged wood in your structure, and overgrown areas outside. Regular termite inspections help identify areas that might increase your chances for termite infestations and catch the start of an invasion before it gets out of control.

Where will I find termites?

Outdoors, termites tend to hide underground in their colonies or in harborage areas like piles of debris, abandoned woodpiles, or tree stumps. Indoors, termites will be found tunneling through wood between wall voids, invading wooden furniture, and traveling to interior structures via mud tubes.

How do I get rid of termites?

If you want to remove termites from your property, skip DIY termite control and contact Southern Home & Outdoor Services instead. Our home pest control and commercial pest control professionals will work with you to identify your major termite problem areas and tailor termite treatment solutions to your exact needs. In no time, your property will be safe from these damaging pests.

Request a free inspection today to get started.

How can I prevent termites in the future?

Keep termites at bay in the future by following our expert termite prevention tips below.

Reduce soil-to-wood contact around the foundation of your property by placing a gravel barrier between outdoor areas and your structure.
Eliminate moist conditions outdoors and any excess pools of water from indoors to remove the conditions termites love.
Repair water-damaged wood as soon as possible, as termites love to invade these areas.
Clear out outdoor areas of termite harborage spots like long grass, piles of debris, and tree stumps or woodpiles.
Seal up cracks around your property’s windows, doors, foundation, and utility lines to keep termites from slipping inside unnoticed.
Repair broken window and door screens and apply weatherstripping to exterior entrances to keep termites and other pests firmly outside.

Contact Southern Home & Outdoor Services today if you want to learn more about effective termite prevention or if you need assistance defeating an active infestation of termites on your property.