Researchers from Iowa State University explain that termites are destructive pests that plague homeowners statewide that are often mistakenly identified as ants. Termites are social creatures that cohabitate with many others in massive colonies. They develop through three phases as eggs, nymphs, and adults and also generally separate into three castes based on their role as either a soldier, worker, or reproductive member.
In this region, the two primary types of termites are subterranean termites and drywood termites. Unlike carpenter ants that only tunnel through wood to form nests, termites also consume wood and other materials that contain cellulose. While subterranean termites form underground colonies, drywood termites typically live within their wooden food source above ground.
Is your property the site of a likely termite infestation? Seeking assistance from a local pest control company like Schendel Pest Control is strongly suggested. A local Marshalltown pest control provider is familiar with the different kinds of termites that invade properties in this area and know how to deal with termites quickly and safely.
What Are The Signs Of Termites?
What are some of the common indicators that suggest the presence of types of termites in Marshalltown? Homeowners should look for some of the following signs of termites:
- Drywood termites penetrate wood surfaces through tiny openings, and small piles of fecal materials usually accumulate below the entry points.
- Subterranean termites form thin tunnels or tubes that run vertically along surfaces and joists near the foundation, leading to underground nests.
- Evidence of termite infestations often exists indoors as panels, drywall, and molding exhibit moisture damage and other deformities.
- During spring, winged termites are often visible, gathering in “swarms” as part of their mating ritual.
Early detection of termite activity is a critical aspect of preventing costly property damage; therefore, homeowners should take the time to closely inspect their property several times per year for any indications of termites.
Is Termite Damage A Big Deal?
Although termites will not bite or sting humans and are unlikely carriers of disease, they will harm properties. Various sources confirm that termites create several billion dollars of property damage annually throughout the U.S., and homeowner’s insurance policies don’t usually cover termite damage.
To avoid costly harm to your home or other wooden structures, it's best to catch termites as early as possible. That's where professionals like Schendel Pest Control can help.
What Attracts Termites To Homes?
Subterranean termites prefer wood that directly contacts the soil, particularly water-damaged wood. Conversely, drywood termites target sound wood containing very little moisture.
Homeowners should remove unnecessary wooden debris from yard areas and address water problems, including leaky spigots or clogged gutters and downspouts. Do termites eat treated wood? Pressure-treated wood contains material that prevents termite damage fairly well. Most treated wood is considered termite resistant—not termite-proof.
How Do I Get Rid Of Termites In My Home?
Schendel Pest Control provides superior termite control services for home and business owners throughout the areas of central Iowa. Our experts will always start by performing a professional termite inspection to properly assess the problem and determine the best option for treatment. Depending on the nature of the termite infestation, we may choose products from Termidor, Sentricon, and other top-quality solutions and will recommend local contractors for repairing parts of the home with significant damage.
Our company is a third-generation, family-owned team with more than 50 years of pest control industry experience. We remain active in our support of the local business community and the regional pest control industry. We adopt many of the recommendations of the Iowa Pest Management Association (IPMA), founded in 1948, and other important educational resources.
Contact our team of friendly professionals today for further details, and remember to ask about our ongoing service and protection plans that include monthly or quarterly treatment visits. We’ll be happy to help.