Termite infestations can pose a serious threat to the structural integrity of the buildings on a property. Understanding the causes behind termite infestations can help homeowners prevent these infestations and protect their homes from damage.
Termite infestations can start in one of two ways: when swarmers leave their existing colony in to start nests of their own or when an underground colony sends up workers to a home to gather wood. If the swarmers find a suitable location, they will start a new colony, building a nest and establishing a new colony.
The queen is responsible just for laying eggs at first, which hatch into workers. The workers of a colony are responsible for the day to day tasks such as building the nest, gathering food, and caring for the young. The termite king will be responsible for the fertilization of the eggs laid by the queen.
As the colony reaches maturity, it will produce its own reproductives, and these reproductives will leave the nest to establish new colonies. This process is known as swarming and will usually occur in the spring or early summer.
There are several factors that can contribute to the start of a termite infestation. The primary factor is the availability of food. Termites feed on wood and other cellulose-based materials and are attracted to structures that provide a ready source of food. Other factors include moist or humid conditions, as termites need moisture to survive, or the presence of suitable wood somewhere on the property, close to the home.
To prevent termite infestations, homeowners can reduce moisture issues or work with a professional to treat the wood of the home, install a chemical barrier or a baiting station. It is also a good idea to hire a pest control company to perform inspections on a regular, yearly basis, especially if you live in an area with heavy termite populations.
By understanding the factors that contribute to termite infestations and taking proactive measures to protect their homes, homeowners can help prevent infestations and the costly damage that termites can cause. If an infestation is already underway, then the best way to deal with it is to hire a pest control company to help you out. A professional team can also install the preventive measures needed to keep your home as safe as possible.
For more information on why termite infestations start and how they can be prevented, or if you require professional termite control services, get in touch with us today.