Stop Termite Damage to Your Northern Virginia Homes
What Are Some Signs I Have Termites?
If you see any of the following signs, you may have a subterranean termite infestation:
- Mud Tubes: These are small, tube-like structures that termites build to travel from their nest to food sources.
- Swarming Termites: Termites swarm in the spring and fall to mate.
- Discarded Wings: After swarming, termites shed their wings, which can be found near entry points to their nests.
- Damaged Wood: Termites eat wood from the inside out, so you may not see any damage until it is severe.
If you suspect that you have a subterranean termite infestation, it is important to contact a professional pest control company right away.
Learn About Subterranean Termites: Identification
- Workers: These are the most commonly seen caste when an infestation is active. They are creamy white to light brown, wingless, and small (about 1/8 to 3/8 inches long). They are responsible for foraging for food, building mud tubes, and caring for the colony.
- Soldiers: Similar in color to workers but have larger, darker, and hardened heads with strong mandibles (jaws). Their primary role is to defend the colony.
- Swarmers (Reproductive Termites): These are winged, adult termites that emerge from mature colonies to mate and start new ones. They are typically dark brown to black and about 1/4 to 1/2 inch long, including their translucent, milky-white wings. Swarmers are often mistaken for flying ants, but key differences exist:
- Antennae: Termite antennae are straight and bead-like, while ant antennae are elbowed.
- Waist: Termites have a broad waist, making their body appear as two segments. Ants have a narrow, pinched waist, giving them a three-segmented body.
- Wings: Termite Swarmers have four wings of equal size and length, while ants have two larger front wings and two smaller hind wings.
Don't let subterranean termites silently destroy your Northern Virginia property. If you suspect any of these signs, contact Guaranteed Pest Solutions immediately for a thorough inspection and effective treatment plan. Early detection is your best defense against costly damage.