Termites are among the most common reasons people call professional pest control companies. They cause a great deal of damage to the structural integrity of homes and commercial buildings. They cost U.S. property owners about $5 billion every year. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about termites. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Termites

Why do termites cause so much trouble?

Termites are known to eat wood, but they do this to acquire the cellulose within the wood fibers. Cellulose is an insoluble material that makes up plant cell walls and vegetable fibers. To consume the cellulose, these insects tunnel into the wood, consuming much of it and hollowing out nests and pathways to and from the outside.

Consumption weakens the wood and compromises the structural integrity of buildings. Moreover, termites propagate and never stop feeding.

What attracts termites?

Termites seek warm, dark, undisturbed places. They need food in the form of cellulose, and they seek moisture, which often comes in the form of moist soil around your home. You can deter termite activity by removing rotting wood (such as firewood piles) and trimming large plants and shrubs near your home. Let the sun in to dry out the soil around the foundation and don't use mulch around the perimeter of the house.  

What are some signs you have termites?

You might notice buckling floorboards, pinpoint holes in drywall, or door and window frames that have started to crumble. If wood sounds hollow when tapped, it could indicate termites have carved out pathways beneath the surface.

You may spot wings that have been shed near windows, doorways, and other entrances, or you could spot one or more adult termites. They look like ants and are often white, brown, or black. Unlike ants, they have straight antennae and have only two, instead of three, body segments. 

Are there different types of termites?

There are three principal termite species. The subterranean species live in damp soil and seek softwoods like pine for food. The dampwood species look for rotting limbs, fallen trees, and woodpiles. They do not normally bother homeowners unless the home structure itself is already rotting.

Drywood termites, on the other hand, cause trouble for property owners.  They infest hardwood floors, structural timbers, framing, and furniture. 

If you're concerned about termites in your home and need a reliable exterminator, contact Moore Pest Control in Hughes Springs, TX. They have served Cass County for more than 30 years. They also specialize in bedbug, ant, cockroach, and rodent control. Learn more about them on their website or call (903) 639-2884 to schedule pest control service.