Termites may exist in your home, and you may not even know it. Many homeowners are unaware of the common signs of a termite infestation which causes the risk of structural damage that can be expensive to repair or replace. According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), termites cause over $5 billion worth of property damage every year. And the worse part of it all, it’s a good chance your homeowner’s insurance probably won’t cover it.
The feeding of termites can lower the value of your property tremendously. The last thing you want is termite damage being done to your hard-earned investment. Below are a few of the common signs of a termite infestation in Dallas, Texas. If you notice any of these signs, ask for help from your local termite control experts at Willis Exterminating.
Types of Termites In Dallas!
There are three different types of termites located in Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, raring to feed on your property: Subterranean termites, Drywood termites, and Formosan termites.
Subterranean Termites
These are the most common type; they are very social insects that organize into very functional colony structures. Made up of three different types of castes to keep the colony uphold. Number one being the Workers which are the cream-colored caste about 1/8 inch long that consumes cellulose and feeds the colony.
Second, are Soldiers which are orange colored about ¼ inch long made to be protectors of the colony. Finally, are the Reproductive. Which has the alates that are black or dark brown, about 3/8 to a half inch long, that are winged termites or “swarmer’s” that leave the colony and establish new colonies. And the Queens that stay within the colony for life.
Drywood Termites
You will see these termites swarming as winged insects. They are a Reddish-brown color with three dark discernable veins on their wings, measuring about 1/2 inch long. They are often found in attic wood, needing very little moisture, without having any connections to the ground soil.
Formosan Termites
Formosan termites are a pale yellowish-brown aggressive eater measuring about 1/2 of an inch. They invade structures from the soil directly through wood to ground contact or using mud tubes they construct up from the soil. You’ll note that they tend to gravitate toward lights.
Know When Termites Are Destroying Your Property In Dallas?
Mud tubes
Mud tubes are trails of soil that looks like tiny tubes. They are composed of dirt or soil. If you see any tubes around your structure, or on your wood, it is a possible indication of termites.
Hollowed or Damaged Wood
Termites will damage wood regardless of its location, age, or quality. These pests will damage wood floors, wood walls, and many more. Termites chew directly through wood as they seek cellulose. Start taking a close look at the wood in your home from time to time and you might notice termite damage in the form of extended grooves.
These termite grooves gradually weaken your home’s wood, creating extensive structural damage. If you do not have your termite problem taken care of by proven professionals, it will only be a matter of time until its structural integrity is compromised.
Cracks Throughout Wood
Cracks in wood are not a definite indication that termites are present, there is a chance this is a clue that termites have invaded your property. Termites like to eat wood from the inside out so you might not know your wood is being gutted until it is too late.
Swarms
Flying termites that travel towards light to create a new colony and look like flying ants. You may not notice them until there are small piles of fallen wings by your windows.
When Are Termites Most Visible In Dallas?
Did you know that the best time to keep an eye out for termites is during the winter and early summertime?
A Few Preventative measures would be to:
- Schedule annual inspections: Having a professional come out to treat your home will guarantee protection of your hard-earned investment. Although DIY measures can be taken, professional exterminators have the appropriate tools to ensure rapid relief and smiles.
- Repair any leaking faucets, water pipes, or exterior AC units: Leaks and water moisture can saturate the wood in your home. This attracts termites providing them with moist wood they crave.
- See a mud tube knock it down: Knocking down a mud tube as soon as you notice them allows termites to stay at bay. This will also help with the indication of termites if the mud tube reappears.
Contact A Reliable Termite Control Company In Dallas
Make Willis Exterminating your top choice for dealing with termite infestations. Our expert team is dedicated to providing effective and reliable termite control solutions to protect your home or business.
Don’t let termites cause further damage—Contact us today or give us a call at (469) 272-9494 to schedule an inspection and consultation. Trust Willis Exterminating to keep your property termite-free.