Termites

Termites living in Georgia have a wide variety of food sources and palates to match. Within the state of Georgia, there are two termite species that are most common. These species are the Drywood Termite and, more commonly, the Eastern Subterranean Termite.

In general, termites can cause a large amount of damage. It should be noted that the damage that termites do to homes or other structures occurs over a period of three to eight years, but the way that this damage affects the structure will certainly vary. Another factor to consider is whether or not the termites can survive winters, and whether or not they are active year-round. Termites can maintain activity year-round if they have the ability to stay warm wherever they are working. Termites can avoid hibernating if they are protected from the elements by slabs of stone or metal, and are able to consume the wood that is supporting the building that they have infested.

Termites will most certainly tunnel through most anything that is between them and cellulose-containing materials, meaning that they will come through insulation, fabric, paint, and really anything else that isn’t glass, metal, or stone. Cellulose is a main component of wood, paper, cardboard, art canvases, the paper covering of sheet rock, and the like. Termites actually prefer decaying materials that contain cellulose because the decay fungi will basically break down the cellulose into smaller pieces, making for quicker digestion. This makes it very important to check for any decaying pieces of wood on any structure composed mostly of wood, especially those that are older or in very moist environments.

It is always best to have a trained professional check your home for termite damage, even if it is a fairly new home. According to the Department of Entomology at North Carolina State University, “There is no accurate method for determining the age of recently discovered damage. You need some reference point, i.e., some point in time when it was known that there was no damage to this particular wood. This is one reason why annual inspections (and keeping your records of these inspections) are invaluable.” In other words, the sooner you begin a treatment plan for these insects, the better.

If both you and the pest control professional can protect your home from the beginning, then so much the better! Call today at 770-479-1598 to set up a free inspection of your home.
Termites can be slowed and even prevented from invading your house, barn or office! Here are some helpful construction tips from the University of California’s Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program on slowing termite invasion:
“Building design may contribute to the probability of termite invasion. Identify and correct any structural deficiencies that attract or promote subterranean termite infestations. Ideally all sub structural wood beneath the building should be kept at least 12 inches above the soil. Consult local building codes for exact, minimum distances from wood to soil. Stucco siding that reaches the ground may promote termite infestations since termites might travel between the stucco and the foundation unseen. Keep foundation areas well ventilated and dry. Reduce chances of infestation by removing any wood in contact with the soil.

Inspect porches and other structural or foundation wood for signs of termites. Look for tree stumps, stored lumber, untreated fence posts, and buried scrap wood near the structure that may contribute to a termite infestation.”
Canton Termite and Pest Control professionals treat newly-built structures for construction companies! Let us know if you need a free estimate for termite protection done by calling 770-479-1598. We will be happy to send one of our technicians to you right away!

On a final note, termites are very successful creatures comparatively speaking. They survive and propagate on nearly every landmass except for Antarctica, quickly multiplying and working as a colony.

Termites have a wide variety of predators, including many birds, mammals, reptiles, other insects, spiders, and more. Some termite queens can live up to fifty years, which is one of the longest lifespans of any known insect. Termites have influenced many scientific ventures and studies, one of which is rather unique. Harvard University’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences developed not too long ago a type of robot designed to imitate termites in a colony. Termite workers act as a single unit, building wherever there is needed construction in the colony, and these robots are very similar in programming.

Termites cause approximately $5 billion in damage every year. This is an enormous number and typically comes out of the pockets of every day homeowners. Termites work ceaselessly and can cause expensive damage in a relatively short period of time if undetected. The best way to prevent this is to have regular inspections to insure your home is safe from any termite threats. Fortunately, when it comes to termites, we here at Canton Termite and Pest Control are the best in the business. If you need a termite inspection, or are worried about a potential infestation in your home, give us a call or text us at 770-479-1598!

By: Tim