Termites build these tubes as tunnels between their colony and their supply of food. If you discover mud tubes inside your home, it’s critical to take immediate action before the termites inflict irreversible harm.

In order to stop termite infestations from doing irreparable harm to your house, this article will go into great depth about how to deal with mud tubes in your home.

Identifying Mud Tubes

Mud tubes are easy to identify once you know what to look for. They appear on walls, ceilings, and floors and are often the width of a pencil.

The tubes are made of mud, soil, and other materials that termites use to create a protective tunnel around their colony. They’re often found in areas where termites have access to wood, such as around windows, doors, and baseboards.

Dealing with Mud Tubes

It’s critical to respond right away if you discover mud tubes within your house. To resolve the problem, there are certain steps you can take:

1. Inspect Your Home

The first step in dealing with mud tubes is to inspect your home thoroughly. Take a close look at your walls or furniture for small holes or damaged wood, which are all indications of termite activity.

This will enable you to assess the size of the infestation and the termites’ origins.

2. Remove The Mud Tubes

Once you’ve identified the mud tubes, you need to remove them. This will help you disrupt the termites’ travel routes, making it harder for them to move around your home.

Break the tubes open with a screwdriver or another sharp item to reveal the termites inside. You can then vacuum up the termites and dispose of them.

3. Treat the Infestation

Removing the mud tubes is only the first step in dealing with a termite infestation. You also need to treat the colony to prevent the termites from coming back.

Chemical barriers, baiting systems, and fumigation are just a few of the treatment techniques accessible. To apply the ideal solution for your particular circumstance, it is recommended to speak with a trustworthy pest control company.

4. Prevent Future Infestations

It’s essential to take steps to prevent future termite infestations. This entails maintaining a dry, well-ventilated home, addressing any leaks or water damage right once, and storing firewood and other wood products far from your house.

Additionally, you should often get your house evaluated for termite activity.

Types of Termites That Create Mud Tubes

Not all termite species produce mud tubes, but those that do include drywood termites, which are often found in warmer temperatures, and subterranean termites, which are the most prevalent species in the United States.

Professional Help for Dealing with Mud Tubes

Even while some homeowners may decide to handle mud tubes and termite infestations on their own, it’s frequently advisable to get professional assistance from a certified pest control company since they have the knowledge and tools necessary to treat the issue and avoid more infestations thoroughly.

Conclusion

Mud tubes are a common sign of a termite infestation in your home. If you find them, it’s essential to take immediate action to address the problem before the termites cause serious damage.

This includes removing the mud tubes, treating the infestation, and taking steps to prevent future infestations. You can safeguard your house from termites and ensure that your property is secure by adhering to these instructions.

For effective and reliable termite extermination services, trust the top provider in the Texas Gulf Coast—Killum Pest Control, Inc. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing top-quality residential and commercial pest control services that eliminate pests and protect your property from future infestations. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Have you noticed large swarms of flying insects near your home? If so, it could be a sign that Formosan termites have invaded your property. These termites are native to Asia but were introduced to the U.S. in the 1940s and have since spread across much of the southern United States, from Texas all the way up to Virginia.

These termites can cause serious damage to homes and other structures, since they can eat through wood at an alarming rate. It’s important for homeowners and business owners to be aware of their presence and take steps to protect their property against them. Read on to learn more about Formosan termite swarms and what you can do if you think your home is at risk.

Characteristics Of Formosan Termites

Formosan termites, often referred to as “super termites,” are one of the most destructive species of termite. They are a type of subterranean termite, which means they live and feed underground. They can cause significant damage to homes and other structures due to their tendency to swarm in large numbers. It is important to be aware of the characteristics of Formosan termites so that you can take the necessary steps if they are found on your property.

Formosan termites are much larger than other types of subterranean termites. They have pale yellow-brown bodies with a dark brown head. They also have wings which generally measure about 18mm in length. These wings may be left behind when the swarmers land on surfaces like window sills and decks, making them easier to identify.

Formosan termites differ from other species in that they build nests above ground instead of underground. This makes them particularly dangerous since they don’t need contact with soil or water for food, allowing them access to upper stories and attics where they can cause extensive damage quickly. If Formosan termites are swarming on your property, it is important to call us right away for help dealing with the infestation.

Potential Damage To Property

Formosan termites can cause severe damage to your property if not addressed promptly. They can swarm rapidly, eating through wood and other materials quickly. If you notice swarming, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect your home or business.

The first step is to contact a pest control specialist for an inspection and assessment. This will help determine the extent of the infestation, as well as how best to address it. A professional will be able to provide advice on what measures need to be taken to prevent further damage.

It is also advisable to inspect your property regularly for signs of termite activity, such as mud tubes, droppings, and wings left behind by swarming termites. Taking these precautions can help ensure that any potential damage is identified early on and dealt with before it becomes too serious.

Signs Of An Infestation

If you suspect that your home may be infested with Formosan termites, there are a few signs to look out for. The first and most obvious sign is the presence of swarming. Generally, Formosan termites swarm in the summer months but can also swarm in late spring or early fall. If you’ve seen large swarms around your home, then it’s likely that you have an infestation.

Formosan termite colonies produce mud tubes or shelter tubes which they use to travel between the nest and food sources. These tubes are made of soil and wood particles and commonly found on walls and foundations. If these tubes are present, it is a sure sign of an infestation.

In addition to swarming and mud tubes, another sign of a Formosan termite infestation is damaged wood. Because Formosan termites feed on wood, furniture, floors, window frames, door frames, and walls may show signs of damage from their feeding habits such as hollowed out wood or frass (wood-colored fecal pellets). If you notice any of these signs in your home, it’s best to contact a pest control professional immediately for help treating the problem.

Avoidance Of Secondary Infestations

When formosan termites are swarming, it is important to take steps to avoid secondary infestations. To start, any wood debris should be cleared away from the property – this includes old firewood, tree stumps and other pieces of wood on the ground. Doing this will help reduce the chance of more termites entering and creating a larger problem.

It is also important to keep trees and shrubs trimmed back away from the house. Keeping these plants pruned will help decrease areas where formosan termites can hide and build their nests. Additionally, keeping gutters clean and free of debris can also help limit these insects’ access.

Finally, repairing any cracks or holes in walls or foundations will prevent formosan termites from gaining access to food sources inside the home. These measures should be taken as soon as possible to limit further infestation and damage.

Repairs To Property Damaged By Termites

If termites have already invaded your property, it is important to take action quickly. Repairing the damage they have caused can be costly and time consuming. Identifying the extent of the damage is key in determining the best course of action.

The first step is to inspect all areas where termites may have been active. This includes checking around windows, door frames, baseboards, and any other wood structures on your property. If you find evidence that termites have been active or if you notice any structural damage, contact us immediately. They will be able to assess the problem and recommend a solution.

Depending on the severity of the infestation, remediation could include replacing wood structures such as window frames or baseboards, repairing drywall or insulation that has been damaged by moisture from termite activity, and treating any affected areas with an appropriate pesticide solution. In some cases, further measures may need to be taken such as fumigation or tenting in order to ensure all of the termites are eradicated from your home.

Replacement Of Structural Elements

Now that the necessary repairs to property damaged by termites have been completed, it’s time to consider replacing any structural elements that may have been compromised. This could include anything from floor joists and wall studs to windowsills or porch supports. In addition, if damage is extensive enough, you may need to replace entire sections of the building.

When dealing with termite swarms, it is important to take a proactive approach when it comes to replacement. Even if you don’t see any visible damage yet, there’s a good chance some areas of your home have been weakened by the infestation and are no longer safe for use. It’s better to replace these elements now rather than waiting for them to fail later on down the line.

Before making any replacements, be sure to inspect the area thoroughly and check for any hidden signs of termite damage.

Homeowner Education And Awareness

It’s important for homeowners to be aware of the potential danger that formosan termites can bring. They are an invasive species, and if left untreated, they can cause serious structural damage to a home. Homeowners should take steps to limit their entry into the home by sealing all exterior cracks and crevices, as well as making sure that windows and doors fit tightly in their frames.

In addition to these preventative measures, it’s also important for homeowners to know how to identify signs of an infestation. Some common signs include piles of sawdust-like material near walls and window frames, mud tubes leading up from the ground onto the structure, and visible colonies of termites themselves.

Homeowners should also be aware of what kind of wood materials are used on their property or in their homes that could attract termites. Soft woods such as redwood or cedar are more susceptible than hardwoods like oak or maple. Taking steps to replace soft woods with harder woods can help protect against formosan termite infestations. Taking the time to educate oneself on formosan termite prevention is key in protecting one’s home from these destructive pests.

Early detection and monitoring of Formosan termite activity is the key to keeping them from damaging your home or business. There are several signs that you can look for to determine if a colony is present. The first sign is the presence of mud tubes on the walls or foundation of a structure. These tubes, made from soil and wood particles, are used by the termites to move between food sources and their nest. You should also be aware of small piles of sawdust near wood pieces, as this could indicate that the insects are chewing away at the material. Swarming may also provide an indication that a colony has taken up residence in your area.

If you suspect that Formosan termites have infested your property, it’s important to take action right away. Contacting Killum as soon as possible is a key step in winning the battle against termites! We can assess the situation and develop an effective treatment plan by setting up our Sentricon Bait System. In addition, we can advise you on preventive measures such as sealing cracks in walls or floors and removing potential food sources like old tree stumps or rotting logs from your yard.

By taking steps early on and remaining vigilant, you can help ensure that Formosan termites don’t become a problem for your property. Regular inspections should be done to monitor any activity as well as implementing preventative measures to deter future infestations. By taking these steps now, you can avoid having to deal with costly repairs due to formosan termite infestations down the road. Taking a proactive approach can save time and money in the long run.

There are a few general takeaways from this year’s report. This year’s weather patterns are leading to an increase in pest activity across the US. Jim Fredericks, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs for NPMA explains: “Warmth and moisture will allow termite, tick and mosquito populations to thrive this spring and summer. These pests are a serious concern as they can transmit dangerous diseases and cause structural damage to your home.”

See below for this season’s Bug Barometer map.

What Does the 2023 Spring/Summer Bug Barometer Say About Texas and Houston?

As indicated by the Bug Barometer map, the South Central states are seeing an uptick in stinging and biting insects.

Warmer-than-normal temperatures throughout the spring and summer may support an increase in stinging insects in addition to allowing tick populations to thrive. Above-average rainfall during the spring season can also result in increased termite and mosquito activity.

Since the Barometer’s data is based on surveys taken by pest professionals in different areas, it’s safe to assume that this information is reliable.

We at Killum is preparing to serve our community during what is predicted to be an intense mosquito and termite season for the area.  Give us a call at 281-297-9993 to schedule an consultation.

The Sentricon system is designed to protect what matters most – your safety and security. By using this advanced technology, homeowners and business owners alike can rest assured that their property is protected from termite infestations. So find out how the Sentricon system works in this article!

Now’s The Time Of Year When Termites Can Be A Problem

It’s that time of year again. With the warmer temperatures, termites start to reappear and can cause a lot of damage to homes and buildings. These pesky insects can wreak havoc on structures by eating away wood and causing destruction as they go. Homeowners should be aware of the signs of termite infestation and take steps to prevent it from happening.

If you believe you may have termites in your home or business, Killum has just the solution: Sentricon. The Sentricon Termite Extermination System our preferred method of protecting their homes and property from termite damage.

Overview Of Sentricon System

The Sentricon system is a powerful tool in termite extermination. It uses baiting and monitoring techniques to eliminate entire colonies of the pests quickly and safely. The process starts with the installation of small bait stations into the ground located around the perimeter of a home or commercial building. These bait stations contain an insect growth regulator that interferes with the termites’ ability to molt, thus preventing them from growing and reproducing. As the termites feed on this material, they spread it throughout their colony, leading to its demise.

In addition to these bait stations, Sentricon also includes a monitoring system which tracks termite activity. This feature allows pest control specialists to identify an infestation early and take immediate action if necessary. By using both baiting and monitoring together, Sentricon ensures that any existing termite colonies are eliminated as quickly as possible.

Sentricon is one of the most effective methods of eliminating termites today. It can be used indoors or outdoors and has been proven to effectively reduce or eliminate entire colonies of pests in a short period of time. With its combination of baiting and monitoring systems, it’s easy to see why it’s becoming one of the go-to solutions for eliminating pests in homes and businesses alike.

What are the Benefits Of Sentricon System?

The Sentricon System offers many benefits to homeowners. First, it is an environmentally friendly option for termite control. The active ingredient in the system, Noviflumuron, is a low toxicity compound that does not leave any residue or odors behind after use. Furthermore, the Sentricon System works with existing construction and landscaping, so there is no need to remove any structures or plants on the property.

Second, the Sentricon System can save homeowners money in the long run. Unlike traditional chemical methods of extermination, this system requires no additional reapplication once installed. This eliminates ongoing costs associated with regular treatments and can save homeowners hundreds of dollars over time that would otherwise be spent on multiple chemical treatments.

Finally, because it utilizes a baiting system rather than direct contact application of chemicals, there is less risk of damage to property or people due to improper application of pesticides. This makes it a safe and effective method for eliminating termites from homes without any risks associated with traditional chemical methods.

How The Sentricon System Operates

The Sentricon termite extermination system works by creating a barrier around the home that is designed to protect it from any future infestations. The system consists of bait stations that are placed around the perimeter of the home and contain a mixture of wood, cardboard, and other cellulose materials. These act as attractants for termites and draw them in to feed on these materials. Once they have fed on the bait material, they will return to their colony where they will spread the bait material throughout, resulting in the entire colony being terminated.

In addition, Sentricon also uses an insect growth regulator (IGR) treatment which is injected directly into the soil around the home’s foundation. This IGR prevents new termites from developing and reproducing in order to further prevent future infestations. Finally, Sentricon also provides ongoing monitoring services which help identify any signs of new activity or potential infestations before they become serious problems.

Stations And Monitoring Process

The Sentricon Termite Extermination System works by placing bait-filled stations in the soil around your home. These stations are strategically placed to intercept termites and provide an easy access point for them to consume the bait inside. Once the bait has been consumed, it will then spread throughout the termite colony, killing off all of the workers and eventually eliminating the entire colony.

Regular monitoring is required to ensure that the stations are working properly, and any changes in activity must be reported immediately. This requires a trained technician to inspect each station on a regular basis, making sure that there is no activity in or around them. If necessary, additional bait can be added as needed to ensure that no new colonies are forming near your home.

Once all of the termites have been eliminated from your property, you can be sure that you won’t have to worry about them coming back again. The Sentricon system provides peace of mind knowing that your home and property are well protected from future infestations.

The Sentricon system is a great choice for anyone looking to protect their home from termite infestations. It’s easy to use, cost-effective, and provides long-term protection from re-infestation. You can trust that the Sentricon system will keep your home safe from these pesky insects all year round. So if you’re looking for an efficient way to keep your property safe from termites, give the Sentricon system a try – you won’t be disappointed!

Subterranean termite colonies are made up of two main castes: workers and reproductives. The worker caste consists of blind, white-bodied insects that range in size from one-eighth to three-eighths of an inch long. They build mud tubes in order to access food sources and travel between their nest and a food source. These mud tubes also help protect them from predators such as ants and birds. Reproductives have wings and vary in size depending on their species; they fly away from their colony to establish new colonies elsewhere.

In Texas, subterranean termites are most commonly found in damp areas with plenty of wood or other cellulose material for them to feed on. This means they often target homes built with wood siding or decks made of wood materials. To make matters worse, these tiny pests can quickly cause extensive damage when left untreated – sometimes costing homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs! Keep reading to learn more about how to spot an infestation early and take steps to protect your home from these pesky critters.

What Is A Subterranean Termite?

Subterranean termites are a type of insect capable of causing significant damage to wooden structures. They live in colonies that can contain up to two million individuals, and they feed on cellulose found in wood and other plant material. These termites form tunnels underground or inside the wood they infest, making them difficult to detect until it’s too late.

In Texas, subterranean termites are found almost everywhere, but they’re most common in the eastern parts of the state. They’re typically active from March through October and prefer moist environments with plenty of food sources. To protect homes from these pests, homeowners should be sure to keep their yards free of dead organic material such as mulch or fallen leaves, as this attracts termites. Additionally, people should regularly inspect their homes for signs of an infestation such as mud tubes or discarded wings near windows and door frames.

If signs of an infestation are found, it’s important to seek help right away to prevent further damage. Professional pest-control services can identify areas where termites have infiltrated your home and provide treatments to destroy them before they cause serious destruction. Taking proactive steps now will save you time and money in the long run.

Subterranean Termite Habits And Characteristics

Subterranean termites are a major pest problem in Texas. These insects live underground and feed on cellulose, which they find in wood, paper, and other materials made from plants. Subterranean termites can cause extensive damage to homes, businesses, and other structures. Here’s what you should know about their habits and characteristics.

Subterranean termites form large colonies that can include thousands of individuals. They build mud tubes along walls, floors, and other surfaces to help them stay moist while they look for food sources. They prefer damp locations such as basements or areas near leaking pipes or water sources.

Subterranean termites typically swarm during the spring months. During this time, winged adults leave the colony in search of suitable nesting sites where they can start new colonies. If you see swarms of flying insects near your home or business, contact a pest control professional to identify whether or not it is a subterranean termite infestation.

TIP: To prevent a subterranean termite infestation, make sure all areas around your home are free of moisture buildup and check regularly for mud tubes that could signal an active infestation. Taking these steps now could save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars in repairs down the line!

Subterranean Termite Damage In Texas

Subterranean termites cause severe damage to structures in Texas. These pests are capable of eating through wood and other materials, compromising the integrity of buildings. They can be found below ground, where they burrow and create colonies that can destroy a structure over time.

It is important to recognize the signs of subterranean termite infestation as soon as possible so that control measures can be taken before significant damage occurs. Common indicators include mud tubes along walls or foundations, discarded wings near windowsills or doors, and swarms of flying reproductive termites during spring months.

If an infestation is discovered, it’s vital to contact a pest management professional for help eradicating these insects from the property. The pest management specialist will assess the situation and develop a plan to eliminate the colony and prevent future occurrences. Ignoring an infestation could lead to costly repairs or even total structure collapse. Taking action now can save money and headaches in the long run.

Identifying Subterranean Termite Infestations

Subterranean termites can cause extensive damage to homes in Texas. Identifying an infestation early is key to preventing costly repairs. This article will provide helpful tips on how to spot a subterranean termite infestation.

The most common sign of an infestation is the presence of mud tubes, which are tunnels that the insects use to travel from their underground nests to the wood they’re consuming. These tubes look like mud-covered twigs or pencils and can be found along walls, window sills, and other areas where wood meets the ground.

Other signs of an infestation include small piles of sawdust near wooden structures and damaged wood that sounds hollow when tapped on with a screwdriver. If you find any of these signs inside or around your home, it’s important to contact a pest control expert for help with eradication.

TIP: Don’t wait until too much damage has been done! A single subterranean termite colony can consume up to 6 feet of 2×4 lumber in as little as 6 months—so time is of the essence when it comes to identifying and treating an infestation.

Subterranean Termite Prevention Tips

It’s important to understand how to prevent subterranean termite infestations. After all, the damage these pests can cause can be costly. So, let’s look at some prevention tips that homeowners in Texas should keep in mind.

First and foremost, it’s important to keep your home free of moisture. Subterranean termites are attracted to moist areas and need a constant source of water in order to survive. This means making sure your foundation is sealed properly, gutters are cleared regularly, and any leaks or drips are fixed right away.

Finally, you’ll want to make sure wood materials on or near your home are kept dry and not in contact with soil or mulch. This includes decks, fences, siding, and other structures. If you do find any wood that is damp or wet, discard it immediately as this could be an indication of a potential infestation. Taking these preventive steps will go a long way towards protecting your home from subterranean termites in Texas.

How To Minimize Subterranean Termite Infestations

When it comes to subterranean termites, prevention is key. It’s important to know how to minimize the chances of an infestation occurring in the first place. This article will discuss some effective methods for deterring these insects from your home or business.

One of the most important steps in prevention is reducing potential nesting and food sources around your property. Make sure all wood sources are treated with a borate solution, and check for any water damage or areas that can collect moisture such as leaky pipes. Additionally, be sure to keep firewood away from your building’s foundation and trim back any tree branches touching it.

If you live in an area prone to termite attacks, it’s wise to establish a regular pest control program as well as yearly inspections by a professional exterminator. These professionals can identify potential problem areas and provide preventative treatments if needed. Additionally, they can evaluate existing structures for any signs of subterranean termites and suggest ways to protect them from future infestations. Taking these steps now can save you time, money, and hassle down the road.

By following these tips and utilizing professional services when needed, you can keep your property safe from harmful subterranean termite infestations and enjoy peace of mind knowing your investment is secure.

Signs Of Subterranean Termite Infestations

Subterranean termite infestations can be difficult to spot, but there are certain signs that can alert you to their presence. It’s important to recognize these signs early on in order to take the necessary steps to minimize the damage they cause.

The most common indication of a subterranean termite infestation is the presence of mud tubes or shelters along walls or foundations. These mud tubes are used by the termites to transport food and moisture up from the soil where they live. If you see them, it’s likely that there’s an infestation nearby. Other signs include small piles of sawdust or wings near windows or doors and hollow-sounding wood when tapped with something like a screwdriver.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact a pest control professional right away as they will be able to assess the situation and take steps towards resolving it. The sooner you catch an infestation, the easier it’ll be for your pest professional to get rid of them and prevent further damage from occurring.

Take note of any potential signs and keep an eye out for them around your home if you want to minimize the risk of a subterranean termite infestation. Early detection can go a long way in preventing costly repairs in the future.

Treating Subterranean Termite Infestations

Treating subterranean termite infestations is an important part of protecting your home from these pests. While the most effective treatment for a subterranean termite infestation is usually to hire a professional pest control service, there are steps you can take to reduce and prevent these infestations yourself.

First, it’s important to reduce the moisture in and around your home, as moist wood is attractive to subterranean termites. To do this, make sure that all water sources such as gutters and downspouts are properly managed and direct water away from your home. Additionally, be sure to repair any leaks or plumbing issues that would allow moisture into your home.

You can also use baiting systems or barrier treatments to stop subterranean termite activity near the foundation of your house. Baiting systems require monitoring; however, they can be highly effective at killing off entire colonies of subterranean termites. Meanwhile, barrier treatments involve treating soil around the perimeter of your home with chemical insecticides that will kill any nearby termites.

In order to protect your home from damage caused by subterranean termites, it’s essential to take preventative measures as well as treat any existing infestations you may have. Hiring a professional pest control service is often the best way of doing this; however, following some simple steps like reducing moisture levels and using baiting systems or barriers can help keep these destructive pests away from your property.

The Benefits Of Professional Subterranean Termite Control

When it comes to subterranean termites, DIY control methods may seem tempting. After all, why hire a professional when you can do it yourself? However, there are some distinct advantages of enlisting the help of a professional pest control company.

At Killum, we have access to specialized pest control products and tools that you won’t have in your home. This means a much more effective solution than trying to handle the problem with over-the-counter products or even home remedies that may not be as effective. There’s peace-of-mind in knowing that an experienced technician is handling the job correctly means you can rest assured that your home is protected from further damage and infestation. Also, we guarantee our treatments so you know you’re getting quality service.

No matter your situation, whether you’re dealing with an existing infestation or looking to prevent one in the future, Killum can help with your termite problem. Give us a call at 979-297-9993.

Formosan termites build nests in the soil and use mud tubes to bring moisture to their colonies. These termites eat wood and other cellulose materials. The queen can lay thousands of eggs in a day and a typical colony can contain over 1 million termites. It goes without saying that these destructive termites that can do lots of damage in a short amount of time.

Castes

There are three types, or castes, found in Formosan termite colonies: – reproductive (alates), soldiers, and workers.

Workers: Formosan termite workers are white to off-white in color and are difficult to distinguish from other termite species. They are also referred to as psuedergates.

Soldiers: Formosan termite soldiers have egg-shaped heads compared to the more rectangular head of native subterranean termites. Formosan termite soldiers are more aggressive than native subterranean termite soldiers. When disturbed, they will exude a small amount of a white defensive secretion. Soldiers make up between 5-10 percent of a colony.

Reproductives (Alates): Winged Formosan termite reproductives or “swarmers” are yellowish-brown and 12-15 mm in length and are attracted to lights. They have a dense covering of hair on their transparent wings.  As we mentioned in our previous post about termite swarmers, if you see evidence such as discarded wings, you should call an exterminator for an inspection. During the swarming period (May-June), reproductives make a short flight (usually not more than 20-50 yards) after which they lose their wings and pair off. From there, they seek out places to begin their new colonies such as crevices in moist wood. In 3 to 5 years, a colony can have a population of 10 million foraging workers, soldiers, a primary queen, and several secondary reproductive with a foraging territory of a few thousand feet.

How they Differ from Native Termites

One of the primary characteristics of Formosan termites is also what makes them especially destructive. Unlike native subterranean termites, Formosan termites can build what are called “aerial” nests. This means that they can form colonies without maintaining direct contact with ground soil.

If a pair of alates successfully finds suitable conditions, (adequate food and moisture sources in a structure) they can initiate an aerial colony with no ground connection.  While these aerial colonies can form and cause damage anywhere in a building or home, these are typically located in moist indoor areas, such as in wall or floor voids in bathrooms. Aerial Formosan colonies can also form beneath shingles on rooftops, especially on flat roofs where rain water tends to pool.

Prevention and Management

As with most things, taking preventative measures is the best way to avoid a termite infestation. The combination of water and wood or other cellulose materials provide attractive conditions for termites. Leaky plumbing, air conditioning condensation and any areas that may collect moisture should be addressed as soon as possible.

When it comes to soil treatment, the conventional method for control of subterranean termites, including the Formosan subterranean termite is to place a chemical barrier between termites and the structure to be protected. At Killum, we specialize in the use of the Sentricon Termite Colony Elimination System. Contact us today if you suspect the presence of termites in your area.

The Sentricon termite control system is a bait-and-kill system that has been used to eradicate termite colonies since 1993. The bait, which is made of a non-toxic, slow-acting poison, is injected into the ground near the colony. This bait inhibits growth of the colony by interfering with its ability to produce protein.

Termite work is done by the workers, which are sterile female termites who do not produce eggs. They are fed with toxic bait to make them sick and eventually die off.

How is Sentricon Applied?

When we arrive to install your Sentricon system, we establish a perimeter, placing bait stations around the structure 10 to 20 feet apart. The bait stations are extremely durable and can last up to 7 years.

The system works quickly once it’s discovered by the colony. Although the bait stations do not contain an attractant, termites will typically choose the Sentricon device over wood. Termites must naturally discover the bait stations containing the bait, which contain noviflumuron. This is the active ingredient that prevents termites from maturing.

After installation, the Sentricon system can be effective for up to 12 months. We recommend having us come out at least once every 6 months to check bait stations.

How Safe is Sentricon?

The Sentricon Termite Elimination System is one of the most heavily tested termite control systems on the market. It has earned the EPA’s Green Chemistry Award and has been proven to be safe for pets and wildlife and has no negative impact on groundwater.

Killum has been installing Sentricon for over 20 years. We’ve performed over 3,500 installations in residential and commercial sites in that time frame. The system is even used at national structures such as The White House and Independence Hall. Sentricon is the most trusted termite solution among pest professionals across the US. It’s estimated that there are over 3 million Sentricon systems installed worldwide!

If you’re interested in having the Sentricon system installed at your home or business, get in touch with Killum Pest Control for a free consultation.

Termite Swarmers

Termite swarmers, called alates, are winged adult termites that fly away in large groups. Typically during Spring and early Summer, these termites fly out in search of ideal places to reproduce and set up new colonies. Swarmers don’t fly long distances. So if you see any, this is the first sign of an existing termite colony in or near your home.

After a short flight, their wings fall off. Therefore, large piles of discarded wings are a sure sign of the presence of swarmers.

Mud Tubes

The most visible sign of termite infestation is the presence of termite mud tubes. These are termite mud tubes that begin in the ground and extend into the infested wood. Termite mud tubes are typically about the size of a pencil. When you see them, they’re probably a sign of a thriving colony.

Structural Damage

Termites eat wood from the inside out. So tapping on wood sounds hollow is often a sign that termites are present. You should also check for blistering patches on wood that result from a termite infestation.

If you suspect that your home or property may have a termite infestation, give us a call for a thorough inspection. Early detection can make all the difference when it comes to amount of damage that these hungry pests can cause.