Termite Control in Provo, Utah

Signs of a termite infestation include:

• Mud Tubes: Termites build mud tubes to travel between their colony and food source.
• Hollow-Sounding Wood: Termites consume wood from the inside out, causing the wood to sound hollow when tapped.
• Swarmers: Winged termites (swarmers) often shed their wings near windowsills and doors.
• Frass: Termite droppings, known as frass, can look like sawdust and are often found near termite entry points.
• Bubbling or Cracked Paint: Termites can cause paint to bubble or crack due to moisture buildup from their tunnels.

Termites are attracted to homes due to:

• Moisture: Termites thrive in moist environments, making leaky pipes, poor drainage, and areas with high humidity prime spots for infestations.
• Wood-to-Ground Contact: Wooden structures in direct contact with the ground provide easy access for termites.
• Cracks and Gaps: Subterranean Termites workers can enter a home through cracks in the foundation, gaps around doors and windows, and other entry points.
• Mulch and Landscaping: Mulch and wooden landscaping materials near the foundation can attract termites.

Yes, professional treatment is typically necessary for effective termite control. Termites often infest hidden areas that are difficult to reach with DIY methods. Professional pest control companies have the expertise, tools, and treatments required to eliminate termites and prevent their return. They can also provide ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure your home remains termite-free.

1. Western Subterranean Termites (Reticulitermes hesperus)

Description:

• These termites live in underground colonies and build mud tubes to reach food sources above ground.
• They are typically small, pale, and soft-bodied.

Habitat:

• Prefer moist environments and are often found near sources of wood and moisture.
• Build colonies in the soil and create extensive tunnel networks to access wood structures.

Damage:

• Western subterranean termites are known for causing significant structural damage to homes and buildings by feeding on wood from the inside out.

1. Arid-Land Subterranean Termites (Reticulitermes tibialis)

Description:

• Like the Western subterranean termites, these termites also build mud tubes and live in the soil.
• They are adapted to drier environments compared to their western counterparts.

Habitat:

• Found in arid and semi-arid regions, often in areas with limited moisture.
• They can infest wood structures in contact with the ground and build colonies underground.

Damage:

• These termites can cause extensive damage to wooden structures. However, they may require a higher moisture level than their environment naturally provides.

1. Dampwood Termites (Zootermopsis spp.)

Description:

• Larger than subterranean termites, damp wood termites prefer high-moisture wood.
• They have a more robust and dark appearance compared to subterranean termites.

Habitat:

• Typically found in moist, decaying wood, such as dead trees, stumps, and logs.
• They do not require contact with soil and are usually found in areas with high humidity.

Damage:

• Dampwood termites can cause damage to homes with significant moisture issues, such as leaky roofs, plumbing problems, or poorly ventilated crawl spaces.