Many pests in your home can’t help but make their presence known. Ants form long steady trails, flies haplessly buzz around, and rodents can be heard scratching and squeaking in your walls. But termites are different. These tiny pests can infest your property without detection, and before you realize you have a termite problem, it might already be too late.

Subterranean termites can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage to your home or business. If you’re experiencing subterranean termite problems in San Tan Valley, here’s what you ought to know.

About Subterranean Termites

Broadly speaking, termites can be separated into three types based on their habitat and behavior. Subterranean termites are the most common type to infest property in the United States and consequentially, they are also the most destructive.

As their name suggests, subterranean termites form their colonies underground. Similar to ants, termites are social insects with a rigid caste system composed of different types of termites specialized for different roles. Subterranean termites feed on cellulose-based material like the structural wood in your home and can eat nonstop; 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

A colony of subterranean termites on your property can easily be identified from the presence of “termite tubes” running along the foundation. These long mud tunnels provide a protective barrier for subterranean termites as they travel from their colony to their food source, trapping in moisture and humidity.

Damage Caused By Subterranean Termites

Every year, termites cause an estimated five billion dollars in damage to property in the United States. Measuring between ¼ and ½ inch in length, these pests might not seem intimidating, but the truth is, they can completely devastate your home or business.

Termites can cause floors and ceilings to buckle from structural damage. They can cause drywall to droop or collapse, and can easily destroy valuable wooden furniture. As a termite infestation develops, it can wreak havoc on your property and result in expensive repairs. Worse, subterranean termites show few signs of infestation until an infestation has reached a significant size, meaning that most property owners don’t realize they have a termite problem until substantial damage has already been done.

Subterranean Termite Prevention Tips

Once a termite infestation has developed, it’s nearly impossible to eliminate on your own. That’s why the best method for protecting your property from termites is prevention. Here are a few tips to keep your property safe from these destructive pests:

• Reduce moisture – Make sure there is no water accumulating around the foundation of your property. Clear drains and gutters and close off any leaky pipes and fixtures.
• Install a dehumidifier – Subterranean termites can often be found in basements. Installing a dehumidifier will discourage them, as well as a host of other pest insects, from feeding in your home.
• Seal entrances – Inspect your property for any cracks or crevices that termites can use to enter, especially around the foundation. Seal any openings with caulk, and don’t forget about gaps around pipes and plumbing.
• Be mindful of wood – Make sure that wooden portions of your property aren’t making direct contact with soil. A barrier of gravel around the perimeter of your foundation can discourage termites from entering. Avoid using cellulose-based mulch around your building.

The best tip for preventing termite damage is to get in touch with the professionals at Ozone Pest Control. Our experienced team provides total termite control services for homes and businesses in the San Tan Valley area. Using industry-leading Termidor® treatment, we will eliminate termites on your property and stop these destructive pests once and for all. If you’re experiencing termite troubles or want to know more about the services we offer, contact us today.