Many homeowners live their lives unaware of the damage happening right under their feet. While you focus on daily routines and responsibilities, termites could be quietly munching away at the structure of your home.
If you have found a large gathering of dead or dying swarming insects in your home you may be experiencing advance stages of a termite infestation. Damage to your home may or may not be visible at this point. Many homeowners are introduced to termites by locating a large termite swarm. It is important to contact a professional at this point.
Understanding Eastern Subterranean Termites
Habitat
Eastern subterranean termites primarily inhabit the soil. They build intricate nests underground and create mud tubes that help them navigate to food sources in homes and other structures. These termites flourish in wooded areas, but their adaptability allows them to infest buildings, particularly those with wooden elements. A damp foundation, wood rot, or excessive moisture create the perfect environment for these destructive pests to thrive.

Termite solider
Colony Structure
Eastern subterranean termites live in complex social colonies with a hierarchical structure. Each colony consists of various castes, including workers, soldiers, and reproductive individuals known as alates or swarmers.
Workers:Â They forage for food, feed the colony, and construct mud tubes.
Soldiers:Â Responsible for guarding the colony against threats.
Alates:Â Winged reproductive termites that leave the colony to establish new colonies.
Understanding this structure helps homeowners recognize the role each termite plays in the colony's success and resilience.

Pictured above, an active Eastern Subterranean Termite colony removed from a home in Eastern CT. A worker (pictured right) a solider (pictured left).
Diet
Eastern subterranean termites primarily eat cellulose-containing materials, such as wood, paper, and certain plant-based materials. While they are crucial for decomposing dead and decaying trees in nature, their appetite becomes a problem when they infest human structures. These pests can cause severe structural issues, leading to repair that may cost thousands to your home.
Mud Tubes
One fascinating aspect of Eastern subterranean termites is their construction of mud tubes. These tubes may not be the most attractive features in a basement or crawl space, but they serve vital purposes. They function as pathways for the termites, allowing them to travel between their underground nests and above-ground food sources without exposing themselves to dangers.
Mud tubes help maintain the moisture levels the termites need to survive and protect them from predators. Homeowners should be vigilant and check for these tubes along wood structures or directly on walls and floor joists.
Swarming Behavior
Reproductive swarming is a notable phase in the life cycle of Eastern subterranean termites. Mature colonies produce winged reproductive termites, called alates, that leave the colony to mate and start new colonies. Swarming typically occurs in warm, humid conditions.
When homeowners notice swarming termites around their property, it is a clear sign that a nearby infestation has reached maturity, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring and proactive maintenance.
Signs of Infestation
Homeowners should be aware of the signs of an Eastern subterranean termite infestation. Prompt action can save money and prevent extensive damage. Common signs include:
Mud Tubes:Â Regularly inspect your foundation and walls for these tubes.
Discarded Wings:Â After swarming, alates shed their wings, often accumulating near windows or doors.
Hollow-Sounding Wood:Â Tapping on wooden structures might reveal hollow areas, which can indicate internal damage.
Frass (Droppings):Â This resembles wood shavings and may be found near infested areas.
If you observe any of these signs, it’s crucial to act immediately.
Prevention Strategies
Preventive measures are key to avoiding termite infestations before they escalate. Here are some effective strategies homeowners can implement:
1. Eliminate Moisture Sources
Termites thrive in damp environments. Keep gutters clear and ensure downspouts direct water away from your foundation. Check for any leaking pipes or areas where moisture collects.
2. Store Wood Properly
Store firewood or any wooden materials at least 20 feet away from your home, and elevate it at least 5 inches off the ground. This strategy makes it less accessible to termites looking to invade your home.
3. Seal Entry Points
Inspect for cracks or openings that could allow termites entry. Closing these gaps will significantly reduce the risk of an infestation.
4. Regular Inspections
Consider scheduling regular inspections with a pest control professional. Early detection is often the difference between minor repairs and major reconstruction.
5. Use Borate Treatments
Applying borate-based treatments to wood before construction or after repairs can effectively deter termites from causing damage.
Safeguarding Your Home
Eastern subterranean termites may be silent, but their impact can be startlingly destructive. Knowledge about their behavior, habitat, and signs of infestation is critical for any homeowner looking to protect their property.
Through proactive measures and diligent monitoring, you can avoid the financial burdens and structural nightmares these pests may cause. Prioritize safeguarding your home to keep it a fortress against these silent destroyers.
In the ongoing battle against Eastern subterranean termites, awareness is your strongest ally. Don’t wait for signs of damage—take action before it's too late!
Treatment Plan
After the inspection, Ellington Family Pest will create a tailored treatment plan based on your property's specific needs.
This customized approach accounts for factors such as the species of termites and the environmental conditions present in your home. Treatment options may include:
Chemical barriers: The most widely used method, where liquid termiticides are applied around your foundation to prevent entry and eliminate nearby colonies.
Bait systems: Stations installed around your property that attract and poison termites, leading to complete colony eradication.
Each option has its benefits, and understanding these nuances can help homeowners make informed decisions.
Chemical Barriers
Using liquid termiticides to form a protective barrier around your home is one of the most common treatments.
This barrier keeps termites from entering while killing off any nearby colonies. The effectiveness of this method depends greatly on proper application. One study indicated that professionally applied barriers can reduce termite infiltration by as much as 95%.
It's vital for professionals to monitor and reapply the barrier as necessary, especially in termite-heavy areas. Depending on factors like soil type and moisture, these barriers might need reapplication every few years.
Bait Systems
Another effective strategy is the installation of bait stations around your property's perimeter.
These stations lure termites in with toxic bait, which they ingest and then share with their colony. Over time, this can lead to complete colony extermination. Regular checks on these stations by professionals ensure that bait remains effective and helps to monitor termite activity.
Research indicates that bait systems may reduce termite populations by up to 90% over a period of time, offering both an eradication method and ongoing prevention.
Soil Treatment
Soil treatment involves applying termiticides directly to the soil around and under your building.
This establishes a strong barrier against subterranean termites. The specially formulated chemicals target termites effectively while being safe for the surrounding environment. This method is especially crucial for new constructions or properties frequently battling termites, as it significantly lowers future infestation risks.
In fact, homes that undergo soil treatment during construction can experience a 60% decrease in the likelihood of termite invasions.
Follow-Up Inspections
Regular follow-up inspections are crucial for ensuring that the treatment was successful and that no new termite activity has arisen.
Typically, these inspections are scheduled every year, depending on how severe the infestation was and your local conditions. We will look for signs of re-infestation and take necessary measures to address any issues promptly.
Early detection during follow-ups can prevent substantial future damage, protecting your property efficiently.
Your Best Defense Against Termites
Facing a subterranean termite issue can be daunting, but acting quickly and with the right help can make a world of difference.
Hiring a licensed pest control expert means you get a thorough assessment, a tailored treatment plan, and ongoing monitoring to protect your home. The average cost of termite treatment ranges from $400 to $1,200, but investing now can save you from costly repairs down the line.
Understanding the steps involved in termite treatment empowers you as a homeowner. With the right professional support and routine monitoring, you can defend against these wood-destroying pests and maintain your home’s structural integrity for years to come.