Termites, specifically the Eastern subterranean termite (Reticulitermes flavipes), are the most destructive wood pest in Michigan. Every year, they inflict thousands of dollars of property damage on Michigan homes all over the southern peninsula. Though they’re more common in wooded, rural areas of the state, they’re prevalent just about everywhere.
No matter where you live, you can get termites. In fact, they’re one of the more common pest infestations that plague Michigan residents and business owners all year round. Here’s what you should know about your less-than-welcome neighbor, and how the professional termite exterminators at Griffin Pest Solutions can help keep them away from your home.
What Are Termites?
Termites are classified in the same insect order as cockroaches, Blattodea. Unlike cockroaches, however, termites are eusocial, which means they live together in large colonies. A single Eastern subterranean termite colony may consist of up to five million termites. Their “subterranean” designation means they build their colonies in tunnels underground.
What Do Termites Look Like?
Within a termite colony, there are three castes: workers, soldiers, and reproductives. Each of these castes performs a different function and has different physical characteristics.
- Workers are small (3mm long), wingless, and translucent white. They’re the only caste that actually breaks down the wood and carries it back to the colony.
- Soldiers are larger than workers, with elongated yellow heads and large black jaws. They defend the colony in case of attack.
- Reproductives (including the queen) are ⅜-½ inches long, black or dark brown, and have translucent wings. They’re responsible for populating the colony and establishing new satellite colonies.
Risk Factors for Termite Infestation
Termite infestations won’t knock your house down overnight, but they can do expensive damage quicker than you’d think. Termites can even cause dangerous amounts of structural damage. That’s why it’s so important to act fast when you suspect a termite problem.
Termites infest wood that’s moist, damaged, or readily accessible. Keeping them out means making sure the wood in your structure is none of those things. The very first place to check for termite infestation is anywhere the soil comes in contact with wood. Termites can build mud tubes along sheer surfaces to get at elevated wood. Even with these tubes, however, they can’t access wood much higher than 18 inches off the ground. Wherever possible, make sure wooden structures aren’t contacting the ground directly.
Termite Prevention Tips
Preventing termites is easier said than done, especially for the average person, but prevention is still easier than cure. Consider wrapping deck or porch pillars in a physical termite barrier. Whenever possible, prevent excess moisture buildup in your yard from puddles or inadequate drainage.
Additionally, look for plumbing leaks, condensation, puddling, or excess humidity. Pay special attention to your basement, as it’s often overlooked. Find and patch up drafts, ensure proper ventilation, and consider investing in a dehumidifier if you have a moisture problem. At the same time, look for any cracks or gaps in your foundation or in other wooden structures.
However, the best way to make sure you’re covered is to…
Count on Griffin Pest Solutions to Protect Your Michigan Property From Termites
If you think you have a termite infestation, don’t wait; contact Griffin Pest Solutions for termite control service today. Our experts have the skill, know-how, and tools needed to face any problem termites can throw at us. We have over 93 years of experience with homes and businesses all over the Michigan area; we think it’s safe to say we know our stuff.
Give us a call to get started with a free service quote!
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