A few facts about termites that may help you prevent your home from being infested.

Termites may not get the same reaction as cockroaches or spiders, but these pests can be very troublesome. It’s safe to assume that everyone knows that termites are extremely damaging to structures because they feed off of wood. But, what else do you know about these insects? The truth is that, like many insects, termites are fascinating creatures with a long history and unique qualities. Today, we’re going to take a look at some of the most interesting facts about termites so you’ll understand what you’re dealing with and why extermination is essential.

Termites Aren’t Going Anywhere

Like many other insects, termites have been on this planet for a very long time. How long? Estimates put them at having developed more than 100 million years ago.

These insects are closely related to cockroaches, which may explain part of their resilience. Even though the average termite only lives one or two years, queens have been known to live for a decade or even much longer under optimal conditions.

They Prefer Warmer Climates

Although direct sunlight is deadly to termite species, these insects thrive much better in warmer climates. In areas where temperatures don’t drop too much, termites are a year-round problem. But even though they aren’t active during the winter months in areas that are especially cold, it won’t stop them. They will continue to feed off food they’ve built up and then kick back into gear when the weather warms up again.

Termite Infestations Are Costly

The fact that termites eat wood can send shivers down a homeowner’s back because of the cost involved with an infestation. Termite colonies are responsible for millions of dollars worth of property damage to homes every year, with individual costs typically in the thousands of dollars. Of all the facts about termites on our list, this is the one that most people are worried about.

Very Small Danger of Bacteria

Since termites live in the dirt, you probably expect them to be very dirty creatures. Surprisingly, the opposite is true. Termites are quite clean and aren’t known to carry disease.

The dirt they live in, in fact, protects them from exposure to harmful bacteria. Basically, while you need to be concerned about them destroying your home, they’re not a danger to your household’s health.

Termites Reproduce Quickly

A reproductive termite queen can lay as many as 2,000 eggs every day. Since queens will often live for a decade or even much longer, just a single one is likely to produce upwards of 10 million eggs in their lifetime and sometimes a lot more. These eggs will hatch in only one or two weeks and the nymphs that emerge will take approximately six weeks to reach adulthood. This should explain why an infestation can get out of hand very quickly.

They’re Good for the Planet

Like many insects, there are good things and bad things about termites. The best thing about them is that they’re good for the planet because they feed on dead wood out in the forest, which helps to revitalize the environment. While this surely doesn’t alleviate the stress and financial impact of infestation, it’s important to know that termites do play a role in nature.

Termites Leave Warning Signs

Some of the most relevant facts about termites involve the warning signs of their existence. Signs of a termite infestation include mud tubes on your walls, hollow wood, peeling or bubbling paint, small termite swarms, and discarded termite wings. If you see any of these warning signs, it’s time to call a professional right away so that the infestation doesn’t get worse.

You Can Prevent an Infestation

Luckily, there are several things that homeowners can do that will help prevent a termite colony from forming in your house. These include watching for the warning signs listed above, inspecting your home every few months, sealing entryways, and cleaning out gutters and downspouts. Just a little effort in termite control can go a long way to stopping the threat of an infestation.

Experts Are the Best Solution

There are certain do-it-yourself termite extermination techniques that you’ll find online. We’ve even covered them here in the past.

However, the best solution is to call an expert pest control company right away. Not only will this prevent a larger infestation, but you can rest assured that the entire termite colony will be extinguished. Plus, their work will be guaranteed just in case a few stragglers somehow survive.

Contact ProHealth for More Facts About Termites

ProHealth Pest Control will help rid your home of termites and other pests using the safest methods available. If you’d like to know more facts about termites or have questions about any of our services, including our tentless termite treatment, reach out to call (727) 308-4087 today to schedule a free consultation.