Termites are a common problem for homeowners and businesses worldwide, including in the US. These tiny, yet incredibly destructive insects, can cause severe damage to your property if left uncontrolled. The only kind of termites we have in Missouri are subterranean termites which formosan are subterranean as well. There are over 2,000 different species of termites, each with unique biology and behavior that affect where they live, where they build their nests, and their likelihood to damage homes. The following are the most common termite species:
- Subterranean termites can cause the most damage of any termite species. They construct distinct tunnels, often called “mud tubes,” to reach food sources and protect themselves from open air. They eat wood 24 hours a day, seven days a week, using their saw-toothed jaws to bite off small fragments of wood one piece at a time.
- Formosan termites are a subterranean species of termite. Known as “super termites,” they are the most voracious, aggressive, and devious. They chew through wood, flooring, and even wallpaper unnoticed.
- Dampwood termites are a species of termite that infest damp and sometimes decaying wood with high moisture content. They are typically larger than other termite species, despite having among the smallest colony sizes.
- Drywood Termites, unlike subterranean termites that need moisture from the soil, thrive in dry wood, including furniture and exposed wood. Sometimes the infestation is small and can be resolved quickly, such as by removing a piece of furniture. The infestation can spread and cause significant damage from the termites’ tunneling through wooden beams or other wooden parts of a home’s structure.
Knowing the type of termites you come across can be useful in evaluating the potential harm to the structures of your house. At Plank Termite and Pest Control, our team of experts can assist you in resolving your termite issue. Contact Plank’s today to get a free estimate.