Termites

What are termites?

Termites are a type of insect, unique because they can digest wood and turn it into a usable food source, cellulose. Termites are well-known for feeding on plant matter, trees, timber, or wooden structures. But being voracious feeders means that if given the opportunity, they will feed on other things, including cardboard, paper, wood, insulation boards, and plaster. While termites look like they're related to ants, they are more closely related to another highly unwanted pest—cockroaches! These two insects may not look the same, but they both are insatiable feeders!

The most widespread termites living in Alabama and Florida are subterranean termites. These termites nest under the ground and have high moisture needs. Subterranean termites do not nest within the wood they are feeding on. The workers travel through the soil back and forth from their nest to a food source each day.

In our area, the most common subterranean termite species we need to worry about infesting our homes and businesses include:

• Native subterranean termites
• Eastern subterranean termites
• Formosan termites

Are termites dangerous?

Protecting your home from termites is important; termites feed on wood, and inside of our homes they cause expensive structural damage. A single termite colony can have thousands to millions of hungry termites in it.

In addition to their large colonies and big appetites, another problem associated with these pests is that most homeowners' insurance does not cover termite damage. Termite damage is not covered because it isn't considered an unexpected or even sudden event. It is also something that you can prevent by partnering with an experienced professional.

Don't allow your property to become a statistic, and part of the five billion dollars spent dealing with termites across the country each year, partner with EnSec.

Why do I have a termite problem?

The warm, humid climate found throughout Alabama and Florida allows many different species of termites to thrive. Because termites to do so well in our area means it isn't a question of if termites will invade your structure, but when. Not being proactive when it comes to termites could put your bank account and home in danger.

Subterranean termites are attracted to properties offering abundant food sources, such as decaying or water-damaged wood and other organic materials containing cellulose, along with plenty of moisture.

Where will I find termites?

Termites in the southern United States remain very active throughout the year. Winged, reproductive termites typically swarm from their nests to mate in the spring, but our climate allows them to swarm multiple times a year. The more times termites swarm and mate throughout the year, the more termites will be around to invade and feed on our home's structural wood.

Subterranean termites spend most of the time in their underground nest or inside the wood they are feeding on. They often find their way into our homes and businesses infesting water-damaged building timbers to gather food for the colony. They prefer wood damaged by water or decaying wood. Subterranean termites regularly feed on structural wood located near pipes, sinks, tubs, windows, and doors.

Formosan termites differ from other species because they can nest up off the ground by creating mud carton nests to help maintain their high moisture needs. They often place the carton nest on the roofs of buildings.

How do I get rid of termites?

Termites are a serious and constant threat to homes located throughout Alabama and Florida. Protect your home and bank account from termites with the help of EnSec.

Termites can be difficult to get rid of, but we make the process easy. We work closely with our customers to meet their specific pest control needs. Our professionals will put in place the treatment and prevention measures need to completely solve your termite issues and prevent them from establishing themselves on your property in the future.

For more information about our comprehensive termite control solutions, reach out to us today and speak with one of our helpful and friendly professionals. 

How can I prevent termites in the future?

Take steps to help prevent termites from becoming a problem on your Florida or Alabama property using our prevention tips. Some of the easiest things you can do to guard your home against termites include:

• First and foremost, eliminate excess moisture from in and around your home. Damp wood and soil attract termites.
• Leave a barrier between any soil, mulch, or other organic landscaping materials and your foundation.
• Limit wood to soil contact on your property.
• Clear out organic debris from your yard, remove dead trees, fallen trees, and tree stumps.
• Regularly inspect for and remove rotting or water-damaged wood in or around your home.
• Repair defects in exterior walls, the foundation, or roofline that could allow termites to move into your home.
• Use a dehumidifier in your home to help prevent moisture from building up and damaging wooden structures.
• Inspect landscape ties, lumber, and other wood structures before using them in your gardens or house.

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