Subterranean Termite Treatment & Prevention

Termites are some of the most destructive pests to invade a home or property. In the United States, there are several species of termites, but the Eastern Subterranean and Formosan termites are among the most prevalent and damaging for properties in Florida. Both species are known for their insidious ability to hide in plain sight, causing extensive damage that can be difficult and expensive to repair. Fortunately, subterranean termite treatment and prevention options are available for homeowners to eliminate these pests.

Eastern Subterranean Termites

Eastern Subterranean termites (EST) are found in the eastern part of the United States. They typically live in soil and build their nests underground, but they can also infest wood that is in contact with the ground. Eastern Subterranean Termites are about ¼ inch long, have a pale yellow-brown color, and their wings are covered with overlapping hairs. They are social insects that live in colonies, with the queen being responsible for producing all the eggs.

Signs of an Eastern Subterranean Termite Infestation

• Wood that sounds hollow when tapped.
• Mud tubes on the foundation or walls of the home.
• Discarded wings near doors, windows, or light fixtures.

Preventing Infestations of Eastern Subterranean Termites

• Keep soil levels below the top of the foundation to reduce moisture in crawl spaces.
• Fix any leaks in plumbing or roof to prevent excess moisture.
• Remove any wood debris or logs near the foundation of the home.
• Use treated wood for any exterior structures, such as decks or fences.
• Have a professional pest company maintain termite bait stations annually. 

Treatment Options for Eastern Subterranean Termite Infestations

• Liquid termiticides: A chemical barrier is applied around the foundation of the home to kill termites that come into contact with it. This process involves spraying potentially hundreds of gallons of pesticide around the structure.
• Bait stations: Stations are set up around the home, and termites feed on bait containing a slow-acting toxin that is taken back to the colony, eventually killing it. The bait is effective at eliminating the entire colony, and safe for humans and animals to come into contact with as it only affects insects. 
• Foaming agents: This treatment is used to treat active infestations in hard-to-reach places, such as wall voids or attics.

Formosan Termites

Formosan termites (FT) are another species of subterranean termites in Florida and the southern part of the United States. They are larger than Eastern subterranean termites, measuring ⅝ inch long, and are yellowish-brown. Formosan termites are also social insects that build nests underground, but they can also build nests inside structures. Their colonies can contain millions of termites, and they can cause significant damage in a short period. 

Signs of a Formosan Termite Infestation

• Swarming termites in and around the home.
• Mud tubes on the foundation or walls of the home.
• Wood that sounds hollow when tapped.
• Discarded wings near doors, windows, or light fixtures.

Preventing Formosan Termite Infestations

• Limit wood-to-soil contact as much as possible.
• Keep wood piles away from the home.
• Fix any leaks in plumbing or roof to prevent excess moisture.
• Reduce the humidity levels in crawl spaces or attics with proper ventilation.
• Have a termite baiting system maintained annually to monitor and eliminate activity.

Formosan Termite Treatment Options

• Liquid termiticides: Similar to Eastern subterranean termite treatments, a chemical barrier is applied around the foundation of the home.
• Bait stations: Same as an Eastern subterranean termite treatment; bait is placed around the home and taken back to the colony.

In summary, termites can cause extensive damage to a home or property if not detected and treated promptly. Eastern Subterranean termites and Formosan termites are the most common species found in the United States, but subterranean termite treatment is possible. Preventive measures, such as limiting wood-to-soil contact, reducing moisture levels, and regular inspections, can help prevent infestations. Treatment options, such as liquid termiticides, and bait stations are available for eliminating active infestations. For the best results, homeowners and commercial property managers should consult with a professional pest control company to determine the most effective subterranean termite treatment and prevention options for their situation.