Locating Subterranean Termites

For the best treatment for subterranean termites, it is important to know where they are most often found. Termites can be found in trees, some plants, firewood, mulch and scrap lumber.

Termites can be found around wood that is in direct contact with the soil. Other areas include, structures around plumbing penetrations, cement expansion joints, cracks are a prime target for subterranean termites.

Inspecting the suspected area with a flashlight, a screwdriver and a sharp pair of eyes. There are several signs to look for that will indicate an infestation:

1. These include swarming
2. Discarded wing.
3. Mud tubes or shelter tubes
4. Damaged wood.

Subterranean termites will build their mud shelter tubes as far and as long as necessary to get to their food sources.

Treating Termites

The best treatment for subterranean termites is recommended that you directly treat an active infestation if you can locate the indoor nesting area. There are many subterranean termite control products available, and we recommend you use a non-repellent product to directly treat the nest. Using a product that is non-repellent (or not detectable) will allow the termites to pick up the product on their bodies and transfer it to other termites within the colony.

Non-repellent products come in three formulations

It won’t kill termites right away, however should take up to 90 days after being exposed. This gives the termites time to “share” the termite poison and infect other termites within the colony. This leads to severe termite population “decline” and very good control for a number of years.

1. Concentrated liquids – This treatment is used to discourage termites from attacking the structure by soaking into the wood and particle boards..
2. Aerosol sprays – Spray into hiding places such as cracks and crevices, moist areas, openings around pipes and sinks, under refrigerators, behind baseboards, coffee makers, meter boxes and manholes.
3. Ready to use foams – Foam expands to reach hidden or difficult to treat areas, and contacts termites or other insects hidden deep within wall galleries or voids..

Using Bait Treatment Options

Termite bait systems are easy to use and maintain. Termites feed on the bait and take the bait back to the colony. Termite baiting systems also have an effect on the entire termite colony which suppresses their population and possibly kill the entire colony. Learn more about termite baiting systems here.

Apply termiticides in “trenches” that go around the infested structure and/or foaming it into the walls. It may be necessary to drill into the foundation slab If the structure is on a slab or cement foundation and inject the termiticide beneath it.

The formulation you choose is usually going to be based on the location of the infestation as well as personal preference. Tackling termites is a simple task and is recommended to consult a Termite Pest Profession or ask for expert help at your local lawn and garden store.

Check out these articles If you have other lawn pest problems like mosquitoes and ants.

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