Being knowledgeable about how termites travel and act is an important part of avoiding a potentially costly infestation. Termites mainly spread through wood and soil, preferring areas with abundant moisture. It would be rare for termites to spread through clothing, but it isn’t out of the question. They might be able to do so if…
As an entomologist who specializes in termites, I can’t help but think about termites every time I hear the faint clicks and rustles in the walls. Though they aren’t easily seen, these little pests often make a faint cracking sound as they eat their way through the wood. Learning to recognize this subtle noise can…
Seeing insects that resemble flying termites for the first time can be a shocking experience. These winged insects frequently swarm in large numbers, usually following a rainstorm, and can be easily mistaken for termites upon first glance. They do have some notable differences, including body form and wing morphology. Knowing these differences is key to…
Diving into termite treatment costs requires knowing a few key factors that affect pricing. As an educator, I know how futile that can be without complete, quality information. Cost varies based on size of infestation, type of treatment needed, and the location of the property, but generally falls between $200-$900. Bait systems and heat treatments…
Houston termite treatment provides a trusted defense to keep homes safe from these damaging bugs. Familiar with the local climate and soil conditions, I hone in on the most effective methods specifically suited to the area. From chemical treatments to baiting systems, each solution promises safety and efficiency. Preventing infestations before they invade your home…
Knowing what termite poop looks like is crucial to recognizing termite activity. Termite poop, or frass, looks like little wood-colored pellets, usually in small piles. These pellets are approximately 1/25 inch long that can be confused with sawdust. Identifying these clues allows for quicker detection and more effective treatment of a termite invasion. Understanding the…
Yes, termites can eat sheetrock, which is alarming to homeowners. Sheetrock, the stuff that lines most of our walls, is basically gypsum in between two sheets of paper. Termites are drawn to the paper because it is made from cellulose, their favorite food. By knowing which risks increase your chances of a termite infestation, you…
Nymphs, or infant termites, contribute to the colony’s overall development and expansion, making them vital to the colony’s longevity. These immature young pests molt many times, maturing through the stages of their life cycle. The management of this process requires complex biological changes, as nymphs take over important colony tasks such as feeding other members…
Knowing whether or not termites will eat treated lumber is key to protecting your home. Treated lumber goes through a process that forces the chemicals inside, making it impervious to termite infestation. The goal of the treatment is to protect wood surfaces from these wood-eating pests, promoting long-lasting durability in the built environment. Treated wood,…
Carpenter ants and termites trick many homeowners every year because of their shared destructive behavior of nesting in wooden buildings. I quickly learned just how important it was to be able to distinguish these pests to save my home from damage. Carpenter ants are larger and hollow out their homes in wood without eating it,…