Most homeowners know that termites are trouble, but not everyone knows what they look like, what they do, or why they infest properties in the first place. We help families gain a firm understanding of these destructive insects by answering:
What do Termites Look Like?
There are thousands of different species of termites all over the world and more than 40 in the United States alone. Here in Massachusetts, families typically encounter the subterranean termite; however, drywood termites have been known to travel to The Bay State by way of wooden furniture brought in from out of state. There are no native populations of drywood or dampwood termites in Massachusetts, only eastern subterranean termites..
Termites are typically between ¼ – ½ inch long with soft bodies and straight antennae. Queen and king termites, however, can reach over one inch in length. Termites can vary in color from white to light brown depending on their class. For instance, worker termites are usually lighter in color while swarmers are darker. Flying termites responsible for reproduction also have two pairs of wings.
What do Termites Do?
Termites do one thing very well. They eat wood. With wood as their main food source, termites can cause extensive structural damage to homes. In fact, termites cause more than $2 billion in structural damage and pest control expenses for homeowners and landlords in the U.S. every year.
While subterranean termites typically travel underground, they are known to fly during swarming season when searching for a mate and starting a new colony. Once they settle back on the ground, however, they lose their wings.
Are Termites Harmful to Humans?
Not biologically, but they damage our homes
Perhaps the most harmful effect that termites have on humans is the scope of damage they’re able to do to your home. Termite damage is not typically covered by home insurance, so families may be forced to pay out-of-pocket for any needed repairs or replacements. Structural damage repairs and termite treatment services can place a huge financial strain on homeowners. Termites will impact your pocket book and that can have a negative psychological impact. When that happens we say the bugs are now taking up space in your head.
What Attracts Termites to Your Home?
There are certain things about your home or yard that may make it more attractive to termites, including:
- Moisture from standing water, leaking pipes, or poorly maintained gutters
- Wood piles touching your home, such as wood chips or stacked firewood
- Cracks or crevices in your foundation, walls, or roof
If your home is prone to termite infestation or you have noticed the signs of colonization, it’s important to address the problem quickly. GreenHow offers free termite inspections to all Boston area residents, arriving at your home within 24 – 48 hours of your call. Our prompt, prepared, professionals have years of experience eliminating even the toughest infestations to our customers’ 100% satisfaction. Call us at (617) 964-4733 to schedule your free termite inspection today!
