Every year termites account for over 1.7 billion dollars in structural damage in the Untied States. As a homeowner or builder it's critical to understand methods for termite prevention and recognize signs of infestation.

There are three primary species of termites in the United States; the Subterranean Termite, the Drywood Termite and the Formosan Termite. It's vital to familiarize yourself with each type of termite, and have the ability to distinguish the different signs of infestation.

Reproductive termites swarm in the spring and the fall. If you discover small, large winged insects flying or lying dead in you residence, you may have an infestation. Reproductive termites are easily recognized by their small body, four large transparent wings, no waistline and straight antennae.

DRYWOOD TERMITES
Light brown in color, the Drywood Termite does not require much moisture and actually lives in the wood. Drywood Termites are extremely destructive because they grow their galleries inside walls, making them difficult to reveal. Often Drywood Termites are not discovered unless the structure is undergoing rebuilding or renovation, so major damage can be taking place with few signs of infestation. The behavior of Drywood Termites exhibits the importance of regular inspections.

SUBTERRANEAN TERMITES
The Subterranean Termite is the most common termite species. Brown to black in color, the Subterranean Termite feeds on wood but must return to ground for moisture. They build their colonies deep beneath the soil, spawning millions of offspring per cubic yard. Subterranean Termite habitats house several queens, endless workers and countless reproductives, making them a stubborn adversary unless expert treatment methods are employed.

DAMPWOOD
Introduces to the United States from Asia, the Formosan Termite is
light brown to red in color. Like it's Drywood cousin, the Formosan Termite nests within the wood, only this little beast is far more aggressive. Formosan Termites can cause serious damage in as little as six months, making regular inspection and prompt treatment essential.

OTHER SIGNS OF INFESTATION AND
CONTRIBUTING FACTORS INCLUDE:
• Mud tubes, usually found in the foundation
• Small hole in your home’s siding
• Staining on the walls and ceiling or rotting wood
• Plumbing leaks
• Wood to ground contact piled against your home

The most important lesson in learning about termite control is to be proactive looking for signs of infestation, and to be diligent getting an annual inspection. Hume and Company is always available for controlling moisture in and around the home with a prompt, affordable inspection. If you happen to have a problem, we'll be there with cutting edge, nontoxic treatment techniques maximizing effectiveness and minimizing negative impact on your home and you families health.

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