How Do Termites Spread?

Written by Posted On Tuesday, 09 July 2019 10:57

How do termites spread? This is a common question most property owners tend to ask. Termites, just like all other creatures, need food to survive. They feed on cellulose-based materials like furniture and books. Termites are always searching for food and are capable of spreading approximately 150 feet from their colony. It takes a few days for the infestation to take place. 

How Do Termites Spread?

Termites are classified as social insects and live in colonies. When termites infest on your house, they probably have created one or several territories in the foundation of your home. They need a humid place for them to survive. Termite infestation occurs in two ways: 

- Subterranean termites look for a way into the structure of a house as they search for food. They then create mud tunnels where they can access food, which is wood on the property. It's the typical type of infestation, and termites can build over foundation walls. 

- Winged reproductive termites can be sent out to begin new colonies in different places. Once they find a suitable location, they can create new settlements. 

Signs of Infestation

The type of termites determines the signs which are visible on your property. Knowing the kind of termites on your house help in determining the perfect treatment. Dry wood termites tend to leave droppings that may fall off from the ceiling.

Subterranean termites create mud tunnels for protection as they transverse through exposed regions. Once you find these mud tunnels on your foundation or other areas of your house, there are high chances of termite infestation. The infestation can also affect the surrounding buildings where there is a lot of mud and water. The Formosan termites also develop mud structures which are a sign of their presence. 

Is a Termite Infestation a Threat To My House? 

Termites can cause severe damage once they infest a building. It can be costly to do repairs and also devastating. A single colony can eat approximately 6 pounds of wood per year. The main structure of your property may be compromised if several colonies infest your house. It's essential for a property owner to protect the structural integrity in the walls and backbone of their building from termites. They are capable of eating other things like your wooden furniture. 

Annual data shows a recorded $5 million property damage which occur globally. Studies also show there are more unreported expenses caused by termite infestation. An area which is humid and has cellulose-based products is a perfect habitat for termites. There are high chances that infestation will occur in such regions. 

Once termites infest your property, they spread very quickly, and the process can't slow down. A building which has wooden structures could get weak due to termite infestation. It can be worse if there are several colonies where each feeds on 6 pounds of wood annually. It would leave the house weak and probably at risk of collapsing. 

The best way to get termites off your property is through extermination whether it be through home remedies or by professionals. If the termites are in your house, the best solution is using termiticides which can kill them. If termites are building colonies around your home, the termiticides used in the interior can create a chemical barrier. 

Conclusion

How do termites spread? Termites can spread rapidly in a humid region if it contains cellulose products. They live in colonies and are capable of feeding up to 6 pounds of wood per year. Different types of termites can attack your property, and you need to identify them for proper control. Termite infestation poses a significant risk to the structural integrity of a building. Fumigation is necessary to clear the colonies. 

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Dalia Rotrammel

Cleaning business for over 20 years. Property Management. Mother of 2, grandmother of 1 beautiful girl. Foster parent.

www.healthycarpetcleaningstl.com/

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