Termites are one of just a few insects that can feed off wood, rendering them quite beneficial to our ecosystem. In nature, termites help clear debris such as fallen branches, consuming the cellulose in the wood and turning it back into the soil. In some parts of the world, termites are even considered a delicacy. These winged insects are soaked and sun-dried before being consumed as a protein-packed snack. But for most Queen Creek homeowners, termites mean one thing, trouble.
Types Of Termites Commonly Found In Arizona
Termite swarmers are responsible for reproduction. Swarmers are winged insects and tend to be darker in color. These termites are more easily identified but can be mistaken for flying ants. The worker and soldier termites are cream-colored, have no wings, and are often difficult to spot.
There are two common termites in Arizona: the Desert Subterranean Termite and the Western Drywood Termite. Subterranean Termites prefer moist environments, often entering your home from below ground, where Drywood Termites eat dry wood and enter the home from above ground.
Signs You Might Have An Infestation In Your Queen Creek Home
Unfortunately, termite infestations are often hard to diagnose until extensive damage has occurred since most of the damage occurs inside our walls. The following are signs you could have a termite infestation:
- Swarms of winged reproductive termites are present in the spring, summer, or fall anywhere on your property
- The presence of mud tubes going into your house often climbing the foundation of your home
- Mounds of termite pellets resembling small piles of salt and pepper
- Discarded wings from the Swarmers
- Crumbling, damaged wood, or wood that sounds hollow when tapped
- Peeling paint that resembles water damage
- Squeaky floorboards
What To Do If You Suspect A Termite Infestation
If you suspect you might have a termite infestation, seek professional help immediately. Our trained specialists at Canopy Pest Control will assess your situation and determine the best course of action to rid your Queen Creek home of termites. Oftentimes, homeowners will attempt to knock down the mud tubes termites use to access the home themselves. It is not advised to do so as the termites will rebuild and be chewing away at your home again in no time. Even if no infestation is found, it is a good idea to schedule an annual inspection of your home.
If left undetected, termite infestations can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage and often are not covered under your homeowner’s policy. Having a yearly inspection conducted at your home could stop a termite problem before it really starts. Reach out to us today to learn more about our termite control options!