Termite Identification & Prevention

What are termites?

Termites are small insects belonging to the scientific order Blattodea and are known for their extensive colonies and constant wood-chewing activities. They grow between 1/4 and 1/2 an inch long, tend to be light brown or tan, and have soft, oval-shaped bodies. Swarming termites are known for their darker colors and wings and their ability to fly away from the colony to start their own colony elsewhere.

Review the information on termites below to learn the best way to identify, prevent, and remove termites in your home and help you understand more about these pests and what proper termite control looks like.

Are termites dangerous?

While termites don't transmit diseases or bite humans, they are quite dangerous when it comes to property destruction. These pests will consume any wood they come across, hollowing it out and causing costly structural damage. Over time, the wood will weaken and become hollow and start breaking down; your entire property can then be at risk of structural collapse.

Regular termite inspections help to catch termite problems before they become this serious.

Why do I have a termite problem?

Termite problems are typically encouraged by your property having many of the factors that attract these pests on display. Access to overgrown areas, moist or humid conditions, and plenty of wood-to-soil contact around the foundation of your property all contribute to a high risk of termite infestation once swarmers come across your property.

Where will I find termites?

Around exterior areas, you'll rarely see termites as their colonies are underground. Mud tubes and piles of dirt or destroyed wood outdoors may indicate that termites have moved onto your property. Inside, termites will typically inhabit walls or structural wood, eating away and hidden from view where they remain undisturbed.

How do I get rid of termites?

Getting rid of termites is, unfortunately, not the easiest task in the world. DIY termite treatments are often less than effective, and you should avoid them if you want to ensure the removal of an entire infestation from your property.

Instead, get rid of termites by reaching out to Quality Pest Control at the first sign of these pests on your property. Our service specialists in Omaha will inspect your property and provide you with targeted treatments to completely remove all traces of destructive termites.

How can I prevent termites in the future?

Follow these simple termite prevention tips to decrease your chances of attracting an infestation of these pests in the future.

• Reduce soil-to-wood contact around the foundation of your property by installing a barrier between wood structures and the surrounding yard. This step makes it harder for termites to infiltrate interior areas.
• Address moisture issues in both exterior and interior areas; excess water and humid, damp conditions around your property attract termites.
• Remove piles of debris from outdoor areas, such as leaf and branch piles, store woodpiles on elevated surfaces, and clear away long grass to remove termite harborage areas.
• Seal up cracks around your property, such as gaps in the foundation or openings around windows and doors, to help to prevent termites from sneaking inside.

Additionally, you should contact Quality Pest Control the moment you see signs of termites around your property, such as mud tubes, termite frass, discarded wings, or wood that appears damaged or breaks away easily. Our experts can take care of your termite problem in no time and protect your property from these pests.