Each year, subterranean termites cause over $5 billion in damage across the US. They are by far the most damaging domestic pest species in the country, and they are able to cause so much damage because of how they build their colonies under the ground. In this article, we’re going to cover the damage caused by these termites and why it is so rampant.
Why subterranean termites cause so much damage
Other termite species that target the home will build their colonies inside of the wood that they consume. This means that an infestation starts out very slow, with the queen having to take care of everything at first, and then go from a handful of workers to hundreds and then thousands. Subterranean termites on the other hand are able to deploy a full workforce as soon as they find wood, and this can really accelerate the pace at which they cause damage. Subterranean termites also infest multiple pieces of wood at the same, rather than focusing on just one, so when it comes time to repair the damage, the renovation process is more extensive, adding to the overall cost.
The factors that affect the damage caused by subterranean termites
Not all infestations will cause damage at the same speed, with several factors coming into play. To start, the size of the colony will affect the damage. A smaller colony will not be able to do damage as fast as a larger one. The geographic location and the climate surrounding the colony and the infested also play a part. Termites tend to have a lower metabolic rate in low temperatures, and they will be more active when their environment is warm and humid. This is why it’s important to make sure that the areas of the home that are vulnerable to termite infestation are well ventilated.
How to prevent and control subterranean termite damage
The best way to prevent subterranean termite damage is to work with a pro who will install a chemical barrier around the home. The chemical barrier is an insecticide that is injected into the ground, and which creates a shield around the building, preventing any termites from passing through. Baiting systems can also be used preventatively, and they are designed to draw in termites and then poison the entire colony as the food in the bait is spread around. If you would like to know more about these two methods, how they are implemented and how much they cost, or if you have a subterranean termite infestation on your property, contact us today.
