What Are Termites and Why Are They Dangerous?
Termites are small, pale insects resembling ants, but much more damaging because, unlike ants, they work in large groups termed colonies and spend their lives feeding on wood and other plant material. The most widespread types in Canada include subterranean termites and drywood termites.
While ants run about, the damage that termites do is to the structure of a house. Basically, they eat the wood from inside, weakening the floors, walls, and even furniture. Unless you stop them early, repairing termite damage will cost you thousands of dollars
Signs You Have Termites in Your Home
Termites are sneaky pests that often go unnoticed until the damage is done. Here’s how to spot termite activity before it’s too late:
1. Mud Tubes on Walls and Foundations
Termites build thin, pencil-like mud tubes that may be observed on foundation walls to travel from their termite nest in the ground to the wood they are feeding on.
2. Hollow-Sounding Wood
Tap on wood surfaces in your home. If it sounds hollow, termites may be termites eating the inside while leaving just a thin outer layer.
3. Discarded Wings
When termite colonies grow too large, winged termites swarm to start new nests. Finding piles of tiny wings near windowsills means termites are nearby.
4. Tiny Holes in Drywall
Drywood termites make small holes in wood or drywall to push out their droppings. These look like little piles of salt or pepper.
The Different Types of Termites in Canada
1. Subterranean Termites
They live underground and build mud tubes to reach your home. These are the most common types of termite damage in Canada and can, if not treated, bring down a house within just a few years.
2. Drywood Termites
Unlike the subterranean termites, these are entirely enclosed inside the wood they consume. They have no contact with the ground and, hence, are very hard to detect until much damage is done.
3. Dampwood Termites
These usually like wet, rotting wood and aren't often found in homes unless there's some kind of moisture issue.
How Termites Destroy Your Home
Termites are always searching for food sources like:
- Wooden beams that hold everything up
- Floor joists
- Chairs and tables
- Books and paper
- Glue for wallpaper
A single termite colony can eat 1/3 of an ounce of wood daily – that’s one foot of a 2×4 board every six months! Over time, this termite eating weakens your home’s structure.
Professional Termite Treatment Options
1. Liquid Soil Treatments
It creates a protective barrier around your home's foundation to stop subterranean termites from entering.
2. Bait Stations
Placed around your property, these attract and poison entire termite colonies.
3. Wood Treatments
Special products are injected directly into damaged wood to kill dry wood termites.
4. Fumigation
For severe infestations, tenting the whole house may be necessary to eliminate all termites, including hidden ones.
How to Prevent Termites Naturally
1. Remove Food Sources
Make sure you keep firewood, mulch, and paper products a bit away from your home's foundation.
2. Fix Moisture Problems
Fix any leaky pipes and make sure water drains well because termites are attracted to damp wood.
3. Regular Inspections
Regular inspections are a key part of termite prevention. Make sure to have a professional check for termite activity at least once a year.
4. Use Termite-Resistant Materials
Drywood termites make small holes in wood or drywall to push out their droppings. These look like little piles of salt or pepper.
When to Call Professional Termite Control
You should call experts like IPM Pest Solutions if:
- You see mud tubes or swarmers
- Tap test reveals hollow wood
- Neighbors have termite problems
- Buying or selling a home (get an inspection!)
Our termite treatment plans are customized for Canadian homes and climates. We use the latest methods to protect your biggest investment – your home.
Final Thoughts
Termites are silent destroyers that can cost homeowners thousands in repairs. By learning the signs of termite activity and acting quickly, you can avoid major damage. Remember – early termite control is always cheaper than structural repairs later!
See signs of termites? Contact IPM Pest Solutions today for a free inspection and to protect your home from these hungry pests.
