Termites Close-up of a termite

Termites are infamous for destroying homes with their destructive behaviors, with good reason. They feed on wood, plants, plastic, drywall, and even metal! Any structures made of these materials—which is most structures—are at risk of termite damage.

As soon as termites establish a population and build tubes throughout the foundation of your home, they can cause structural damage quickly. Termite damage can be dangerous and costly to fix. If you suspect a termite infestation in your home, call Wildlife X Team® today at (817) 431-3007!

Common Termite Problems

  • Damage to structure and foundation of homes 
  • Homes built from a majority of other materials other than wood are just as much at risk.

What Types of Termites are There?

There are three primary types of termites that are drawn to different aspects of a home:

  • Dampwood termites
  • Drywood termites
  • Subterranean termites

How Can You Tell If You Have Termites?

Winged termite swarm on a log

Common signs of termite activity in your home can include the following:

  • Damaged or hollow wood, especially to flooring or walls—these areas, which are commonly misdiagnosed as water damage, are called blisters
  • Termite droppings of dry wood 
  • Indications of termite swarms (wings found under doors and windows). Once a termite lands, it purposely twists its wings off because it won't need them anymore.
  • Termite mud tubes—mud tubes are about the size of a pencil and are often found on home's foundations near termite nests. Mud tubes typically comprise wood and soil and work as a protective barrier to protect termites while they're traveling from their nest to their food source (most often your home).

Why Do I Have Termites? What Attracts Termites to The House?

These are common questions we receive from alarmed homeowners who are dealing with termite damage. The answer isn't so simple. There are myriad situations and materials which draw in termites, and some you can't necessarily get around not having.

Moisture

Perhaps the number one thing that draws in termites is the promise of moisture, which can occur in many areas of your home. Pipes that are leaking, inadequate airflow, and poor drainage can create the termite's preferred environment. Termites are drawn to the pools that can happen when a gutter isn't appropriately cleaned and in working order.

Your Home's Foundation's Wood

Subterranean termites gain entry to homes through soil or wood, so if there is wood touching your foundation, they may enter this way. Any wood leaning against your home, like firewood, can also invite termites.

Cracks in the Foundation

Like all other insects, termites take advantage of easy access to your home, which is often through cracks in your home's foundation. 

Protect your home from termites with a call to Wildlife X Team® today—(817) 431-3007. You can also reach our termite professionals online.