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Pest Spotlight: Subterranean Termites In Birmingham

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Subterranean termites are one of the most destructive termite species in existence. They can cause severe damage to a structure over long periods, and they often go unnoticed for months or years. By the time the threat these pests present is recognized, they have usually done very expensive or sometimes irreparable damage to the home they infested. Fortunately, EnviroCare provides the best pest control in Birmingham. We’re here to help you understand the warning signs of subterranean termite activity and show you how to get rid of these pests.

About The Subterranean Termite Caste System

Within each termite species, there are three different kinds of termites, divided into groups known as castes. These castes each serve a different purpose in the colony. Workers, soldiers, and swarmers are the three main castes within a subterranean termite colony. Workers are usually the smallest, averaging a quarter of an inch or less in length. They are a creamy white color. Their small jaws help them chew through wood, and their primary responsibility in a colony is to consume wood and provide nutrition to the other termites. Soldiers also have cream-colored bodies, but they can be distinguished from workers by their mandibles and rectangular-shaped heads. Their heads are usually a darker brown color. Swarmers are the reproductive members of the colony. They are typically between a quarter of an inch and half an inch long, and they are the only members of the colony with wings. Their bodies are darker than the other termites, ranging from dark brown to black. Swarmers are responsible for helping the colony grow. Once the colony has matured, swarmers will leave to produce new colonies. Now that you know about the subterranean termite caste system, let’s talk about some warning signs of termitesin your Birmingham home.

Know The Warning Signs Of Termite Damage

The first step to dealing with termites is to know the signs of a termite infestation. One of the most common signs of subterranean termites is finding mud tubes on the outside foundation of your house. Subterranean termites need moisture to survive when above the ground, so they construct tunnels out of wood and soil to keep themselves safe and retain moisture as they venture out to find new food sources. Other signs of termites include bubbling paint, darkened or hollow-sounding wood, and piles of termite feces or frass. You may also see the discarded wings of swarmers around windows and doors. 

Handy Tips To Prevent Termites Around Your Property

If you know how to identify the signs of termite damage on your property, you’re already ahead of the game. Next, you should know how to keep termites away from your home.

Here are a few handy termite preventiontips:

  • Examine the exterior of your house frequently for mud tubes or gaps that might allow termites inside. 
  • Store firewood away from your house and up off the ground.
  • Reduce moisture buildup, especially around the foundation.
  • Carefully monitor any parts of your home where wood contacts the soil.

These tips should help you spot a termite infestation before it gets out of hand, but what do you do if you already have a termite problem? Professional pest control is the way to go.

The Best Way To Get Rid Of Subterranean Termites

If you need termite control in Birmingham, look no further than the EnviroCare experts. We’ve been in business for over 60 years and are still family-owned and dedicated to the same values as we were back then – expertise, customer-first service, and eco-friendly pest control practices. Our job isn’t over until you’re satisfied. Don’t wait; call EnviroCare today to get help with termites and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Birmingham.