What are Termite Mud Tubes? November 21, 2022 - By: Nathan Woolf People often ask, “What are termite mud tubes?” Unfortunately, termites are extremely common in the Phoenix area. Mud tubes are pathways termites use to connect colonies in the soil to food sources above ground. Tubes work as a shelter to protect termites from predators. In addition, these tunnels lock in moisture needed for termites to survive. Continue reading to learn more about mud tube types, how to identify them, and most importantly, how to protect your home from becoming a termite colony’s next lunch. Do you need termite control? We serve all of the Phoenix area and will give you a free quote! We have offices in Gilbert and Phoenix while serving everywhere from Mesa to Surprise.Related: Termite Control in PhoenixWhat is a Termite Tube? A termite mud tube is a tunnel used by subterranean termites to help protect them from drying out and from predators. These tubes are composed of soil, wood, and saliva. Mud tubes shelter termites while they are working and obtaining substance. What Do Termite Tubes Look Like? Termite tubes are generally ¼ to 1 inch in diameter and look like veins being spread across your foundation, ceiling, or walls. The color of these tubes varies based on how dense and active the infestation. Regardless of the density, shape, or color, discovering termite tubes should not be taken lightly as it indicates you have an infestation and should take immediate action. Just removing the tubes isn’t enough. Termites work quickly and will rebuild tubes in no time at all.Types of Termite Tubes There are four primary types of termite tubes. They vary in structure and function. Exploration Tubes Exploratory tubes are used in search of food sources. Growing as high as 15 feet above ground, these thin and delicate mud tubes can be quite prominent. Coming from the soil, but not connecting to a food source, they have a unique look. By the time they are discovered, these exploratory tubes have usually been abandoned. Abandoned exploration tubes are never a good sign as it indicates termites have ventured deeper into a structure to find food.Working TubesWorking tubes are essentially the transport tunnels between food sources and the termites’ nest. Working tubes are built to be more durable than exploration tubes to allow for long-distance travel along foundations and walls. Commonly found in places like window frames, subflooring, and under porches and decks. Swarm Tubes When winged swarmer (alate) termites prepare to leave and start new colonies, the scene can be quite chaotic. Worker termites build temporary swarm tubes to help protect and organize the swarmers. Also referred to as swarm castles, these tubes can be very large in size, up to four feet wide. When ready to move out, workers direct the winged swarmers out of the swarm castle.Drop Tubes Drop tubes are easy to identify because they often resemble stalagmites in caves. Lighter in color than other mud tubes, drop tubes contain more wood fibers and less mud. Coming from the ceiling of structures, drop tubes try to make a connection with working tubes, making food sources more accessible for termite workers, and increasing humidity by reestablishing contact with the soil. Why Are Termite Tubes Bad? Mud tubes alone aren’t the problem, the issue is what they imply. Providing a protected gateway into your home, mud tubes are a sure sign of infestation. If you stumble upon a termite mud tube, take immediate action. Where Can People See Termite Tubes? Termite mud tubes are most easily spotted along exterior concrete walls or your home’s foundation. Sometimes they are difficult to detect because they’re hidden in places like crawlspaces, cracks in your foundation, behind baseboards, or inside your walls. Related: Are Landlords Responsible For Pest Control?Preventing Termites in Your Arizona Home Termites are so common in Arizona that it isn’t a question of if you’ll deal with them, but when. Termites are the most destructive urban pest in Arizona.Because termites are such a problem, we’ve compiled a list of some preventative termite prevention methods: Seal all gaps and cracks in your home, including cracks around water and gas lines, damaged siding, and windows and doors. Keep wood piles, lumber, and piles of paper away from the foundation of your home. Make sure your plants and trees aren’t leaning onto the roof of your home. Termites will use them as highways to make their way into your home. Vegetation can also act as shelter for termites and other insects. Routinely check any of your external wooden structures for signs of rotting or infested wood. This would include sheds, fences, and decks. Most importantly, get a routine termite inspection by a professional pest control company in your area. This could save you thousands of dollars in the long run. Reputable companies will often offer free termite inspections, so you have nothing to lose. What Are Termite Mud Tubes Conclusion Termite mud tubes by themselves pose no danger, but what’s inside could be wreaking havoc on your home. Should you discover a termite mud tube, reach out to Blue Sky Pest Control. We’ve been protecting homes from termites and other Arizona pests for 20 years. Our team of highly trained, high-character technicians will create a custom termite treatment plan and restore your peace of mind knowing your home is safe.
How Do I Choose A Termite Control Company? August 31, 2020 - By: Nathan Woolf “It’s not if, but when,” is a phrase commonly used to describe the prevalence of termite infestations in Phoenix, Arizona. Even though these pests are so common, choosing a termite control company isn’t a decision you should make lightly. Before making your final decision, make sure your pest control company meets these requirements. A Quality Guarantee Many reputable pest control companies offer a quality guarantee or warranty to ensure your services are effective. Before signing on with a company, make sure you verify they have a guarantee and understand the terms and conditions. CertificationsCertifications can go a long way in showing the quality of the company you’re considering. The company should be a member of your state’s pest control association as well as the National Pest Management Association. Ratings from the Better Business Bureau and companies like Angie’s List can also give you more insight into how trusted the company is. Variety of Treatment OptionsBefore you choose a company, find out what kind of treatment options they offer. Not all termiticides (termite control products) are created equal. A good pest control company should be able to balance your preferences and your home’s needs to find the perfect solution. Customized Treatment Options Pest control is not a one-size-fits-all practice. Your pest control company should complete a thorough inspection of your home and exterior to gain a complete understanding of your needs. Before starting termite treatment, your pest control expert should go over their proposal with you and make sure you’re comfortable with the plan. As a trusted Phoenix pest control company, Blue Sky Pest Control offers a quality guarantee on most termite treatment options and works with you to develop and carry out a treatment plan that you’re comfortable with. Due to our commitment to exceptional service and customer care, Blue Sky was ranked as the #1 Pest Control provider by Ranking Arizona for 2020. With an A+ Better Business Bureau ranking, memberships in the Arizona Pest Professional Organization and National Pest Management Association, and recognition from Angie’s List and Rosie on the House, we would be honored to become your pest control partner. Contact us today for more information!
Best Practices To Keep Your Arizona Home Protected From Termites July 29, 2020 - By: Nathan Woolf If you’re a resident of Phoenix, Arizona, you know termites can cause major issues. These silent pests feed on wood, but can also damage cardboard paper, books, and insulation. Unfortunately, many homeowners aren’t aware of termites’ presence until much damage has been done. To help you avoid termite damage to your home, read our top tips for protecting your home from these harmful pests. Remove Wood, Mulch, and Cardboard Termites thrive on eating lumber, wood, mulch, paper, and cardboard. To discourage termites from entering your home, keep these materials as far away from your home’s foundation as possible. Move Plants Moving plants at least 2 feet from exterior walls will help prevent termites from moving into your home. While you’re at it, prune back trees and shrubs from the exterior and foundation of your home so termites can’t use the branches to enter your home. Eliminate Excess Moisture Termites will follow moisture or water into your house, so make sure to shore up any leaks or excess moisture. Inside, inspect your home for leaky faucets and repair water-damaged walls, ceilings, and floors. Outside, check your roof for any leaks or small holes. Turn sprinkler heads away from your home, and make sure drains flow away from exterior walls. Perform Regular Inspections Termites are active year round and peak termite season for Arizona is January through April and August to November. At the start of each season, check the interior and exterior of your home for signs of termites. Look for small, light brown termite tubes along the foundation of your house, on walls, or descending from the ceiling. Remember to look in closets, the corners of rooms, and your garage. If you find signs of termite activity, call an expert right away! Expert Termite Treatment At Blue Sky Pest Control, we’re well-versed in eradicating termites from Phoenix residences. When you call us, we’ll: Perform a thorough investigation: a licensed termite inspector will determine the scope and severity of your infestation and give treatment recommendations. Conduct a customized treatment: Treatments usually involve your pest control technician will dig a shallow trench around your home and fill it with Termidor, a non-repellant product. Termidor is undetectable by termites, so as they go about their work they’ll walk through this product and eventually transfer it back to the rest of the termites, eliminating the colony. After the treatment is complete, your technician will carefully backfill the trench and replace any ground coverings you had in place. Afterwards, there will be virtually no visible evidence left behind, but the protective barrier will continue to be effective for up to several years.Give you a quality guarantee: With few exceptions, all of our termite treatments come with a treatment warranty. If you see evidence of new termite activity during the warranty period, we’ll come back and provide additional treatment at no cost. In the event you need to sell your home, the warranty is fully transferable, too. If you’ve found evidence of termites or want to protect your home from future infestations, contact Blue Sky Pest Control.
Lower Your Risk of Termite Infestation July 1, 2020 - By: Nathan Woolf “The silent destroyer” costs Americans more than $5 billion in damages each year, according to the National Pest Management Association. What’s “the silent destroyer,” you ask? Termites. Unfortunately, most homeowners’ insurance plans won’t cover the extreme damage that termites can cause in your home. Being proactive about protecting your home against termites is a crucial step toward termite infestation prevention. In order to survive, most termite species’ top three needs are wood, moisture and shelter. Taking preventative measures against these three things and having a professional consistently inspecting your home will assist in lessening the likelihood of an infestation. Take a look at these simple tips to lower your risk of termite infestation.Fix Leaky Faucets, Water Pipes and AC UnitsBecause termites love any kind of moisture, it’s important to fix leaky faucets, water pipes and air conditioning units as soon as you notice there is a problem. They thrive in damp places, especially places where there could potentially be damp wood. If there is any sign of water damage in your home, be sure to investigate immediately and fix the source. It’s also important to replace that rotting wood because, before you know it, you could potentially have some unwanted houseguests eating you out of house and home—literally.VentilationOur monsoon season can create damp, muggy and humid basements providing just the right amount of moisture and stickiness that draw in termites. They aren’t attracted only to the moisture itself but also what that moisture does to wood. A good rule of thumb for proper ventilation in your basement or crawlspace is to have one square foot of vent opening per 150 feet of the area. To prevent humidity, make sure to keep vents on the inside and outside of your home clear from plants and other shrubbery. The more airflow you have in your basement or crawlspace, the better the ventilation and less likelihood of humidity, mold and rotting wood. Dehumidifiers are another extra measure you can take to prevent dampness in your basement or crawlspace. But be sure to empty out the dehumidifier’s tray of water because you definitely don’t want any standing water anywhere.It’s also important to make sure to seal foundation cracks and holes within the basement or crawlspace, as well as on the outside of the home. Termites can get in through tiny nooks and crannies, including entry points for pipes and other utilities.Get Rid of Easy Access to Their Favorite FoodWhile mulch is great for plant health, and it’s a pretty nice little aesthetic for the outside of your home, it definitely contributes to termite problems if it’s used in excess. Mulch is often made of wood, and it retains a lot of moisture, two of termites’ favorite things. If you must use mulch, use it sparingly and never let it have contact with doors, windows or the foundation of your home.Cardboard boxes, firewood, sawdust, lumber and even newspapers attract termites as well. If these items are stored in your garage or in and around your home, it offers a tasty treat for the termites in your home. If you must keep firewood outside of your home, be sure it’s elevated off the ground and stacked away from the home’s foundation. Getting rid of vines and stumps near the foundation of your home is also a good way to reduce your risk of termite infestation.Physical Termite BarriersPhysical termite barriers are another option for lowering your risk of termite infestation. They are designed to protect the foundation of your home by inhibiting termites from gaining access. The most common and effective barrier here in Arizona is a liquid barrier. This barrier is made by applying a product directly into the soil around the foundation of your home. A liquid treatment along with keeping conducive conditions in check around your home are an extremely effective combination in protecting your home against subterranean termites.
What is Termidor? July 20, 2017 - By: Nathan Woolf Termidor is a type of pest control treatment manufactured by BASF Pest Control Solutions that primarily targets termites, including all the subterranean species of termites found in Arizona—subterranean termites, though it is also effective against ant infestations.Related: Signs Of TermitesTermidor is a liquid treatment used to kill termites as they enter a perimeter around the home or business, as opposed to the less common baiting treatments for termites. The liquid treatment is applied in careful locations to the soil around the outside of the home, directly in the path of the termites. Because this is a non-repellent termite treatment, meaning that it does not drive the termites away, they simply walk through and eat the treated material. The liquid will not only kill those that have ingested it but can be carried by one termite to another and spread throughout the colony; this is referred to as the Termidor “Transfer Effect.”The thought of thousands of termites crawling around inside your walls, chewing through wood, and wreaking havoc on your home can send anyone into a panic. Instead of razing your home to the ground to get rid of these unfortunately common pests—some claim termites damage approximately 600,000 homes a year—many homeowners and pest control experts turn to Termidor as the main tool used to eradicate termites entering the home.“The liquid will not only kill the termites that have ingested it, but can be carried by one termite to another and spread throughout the colony…”What to Expect from a Termidor TreatmentTermidor should not be applied by the homeowner, and only a licensed pest control technician should treat termites with Termidor to ensure maximum effectiveness and safest handling. During the application process, which typically takes just one day, the pest control technicians will employ a technique called “trenching,” or “trenching and rodding,” in which they dig small trenches around the foundation of the home. If there are concrete or other hard materials next to the foundation, the technicians may drill small holes into the structure to ensure that the Termidor reaches all infested areas. Extensive infestation may require that the technicians treat areas within the home.Is Termidor safe to use?Termidor is odorless and water-based, and it will not leach through soil or cause harm to plants near the treatment areas. It has been used safely in millions of homes, including those with children and pets; in fact, one of the main active ingredients in Termidor is also an ingredient in Frontline, one of the leading flea and tick control products for dogs and cats.With regular checkups, a Termidor treatment will keep termites at bay as long as it the “Termidor Zone” is active.Other Treatments for TermitesThere are many different types of treatments for termites, including repellent liquid treatments, non-repellent liquid treatments, and baiting treatments. Liquid treatments are generally the same: the pest control technicians apply a solution to the soil and foundation of the home. Termidor differs from many other liquid non-repellent termite treatments because of the unique “Transfer Effect” feature. Termites are social insects and once a termite comes into contact with Termidor it “transfers” the product to other termites as they work to sustain the colony. This transfer ultimately gets to the termite queen(s), when then eliminates the queen(s) and the colony. With baiting treatments, stations are installed around the home with a cellulose material and active ingredients. This treatment requires that the termites find the stations and ingest the material.Related: Phoenix Termite ControlIf you’ve noticed any signs of a termite infestation in your home, don’t try to tackle it yourself—call Blue Sky Pest Control to tackle it for you. Join the thousands who rely on our trained and friendly pest control professionals to get to the root of their termite concerns and know how to treat your house for termites. If you live in the Phoenix area, click here to get your free estimate. We serve the entire area from Gilbert to Surprise to Mesa.
Treatment Options for Termite Control in Arizona February 24, 2015 - By: Nathan Woolf Termites are extremely common throughout the greater Phoenix area. Every day, we treat homes with termite infestations. The most common termite we work with—about 98% of the time—is the Heterotermes, or desert subterranean termite.There are generally two approaches one can take to address this type of termite activity for a home or business: liquid treatment or baiting.Liquid Treatments—the Most Common Treatment ApproachHow do Liquid Treatments WorkA liquid treatment involves digging a two- to six-inch deep by four- to six-inch wide trench around the foundation of the home. Where there is concrete abutting the foundation, holes are drilled into the concrete to get to the soil underneath the concrete or pavers, unless it is a post-tension slab. The chosen material is then placed into the trench or injected under the slab through the drill holes. The material will travel into the soil to target the termites, since that is where the desert subterranean termite comes from.Effectiveness of Liquid TreatmentsThe effectiveness of liquid treatments is determined by the type of material chosen and how the treatment is applied by the pest management professional. Non-repellants are the best materials to use as they cannot be detected by the termites. With non-repellants, the termites unknowingly get into the material and share it within the colony. This liquid treatment leaves a residual that can effectively protect a home from termite activity for a period of several years after treatment.Baiting TreatmentsHow Baiting Treatment WorksBait monitoring stations are installed in the soil around the home using a drill or auger, spaced about every ten to 20 feet. These bait stations have an area in which to put a cellulose material, which is then available to the termites underground. This material can include an active ingredient or simply be the cellulose material, which has no attractant; the termites have to find the material. After being placed, these monitoring stations are inspected to determine if they are “hit.” If using cellulose material only, the active ingredient needs to then be added to the stations.Effectiveness of Baiting TreatmentsThe Heterotermes desert subterranean termite is a sensitive little creature to what is called “disturbance.” Studies have shown that when something around them is disturbed, the termites tend to stay away for a time. So what does this have to do with baiting?Previous systems required the pest management professional to take the interior tube that held the cellulose out of the station to inspect the system to see if there was activity. In addition, when a hit occurred, this material was swapped out for bait that had an active ingredient that would actually eliminate the colony. In each of the scenarios, disturbance occurs; this is one of the factors as to why baiting systems have had trouble in the Phoenix area.In other areas of the country where different species of termites live, baiting systems have proved to be very effective. BASF, a chemicals company, has had a product on the market for some time called the Advance Termite Bait System (ATBS). This system does not require the pest management professional to disturb the cellulose within the cylinder in the ground. Once termite activity is experienced, he or she simply places the active ingredient on the top of the cellulose. This approach reduces the likelihood of disturbance. Dow, another chemicals company, has also recently introduced a similar approach with its widely used Sentricon system. This new approach allows the pest management professional to avoid disturbing the cellulose at all.In addition to disturbance, research has been done that identifies other factors that may affect the effectiveness of baiting systems. The size of the termite colony we deal with most often in the Phoenix area ranges between 100,000 to 450,000 termites. Other species, like the Eastern subterranean termite, have colonies that can reach numbers greater than one million. Smaller colonies may reduce the likelihood of finding the baits. In some instances, not enough bait monitoring stations are placed at the customer’s home in order to reduce the cost of the baiting system and continual monitoring. Current research is not conclusive, but there is the possibility that because the colony sizes are smaller, the termites that come into contact with the active material may not bring a sufficient quantity of it back to the colony to be effective.There are advances being made with the baiting systems, and we are currently in the look and see phase to determine if these new advances will provide the consistency and predictability of results we promise our customers. We provide termite control throughout the Phoenix area including Gilbert, Surprise, Mesa, and Scottsdale! Get your free quote today!
Common Signs of Termite Infestation September 24, 2014 - By: Nathan Woolf Residents of Phoenix are highly aware of termites and the damage they can bring. Preparing and preventing a termite infestation includes knowing what the common signs of termite infestation are. Termites are sneaky critters. Sometimes called the “silent destroyers,” homeowners oftentimes don’t even realize they have a termite infestation. To an untrained eye, noticing certain signs of termite infestations can be difficult. Being aware of these different signs can make you more aware of termite activity that may be present at your home or property.Related: Signs of TermitesSigns of a Termite InfestationSigns of termite infestation include:mud tubes,noticeable swarms,termite droppings,discarded wings,buckled or warped woodBe sure to familiarize yourself with these signs and be on the lookout for them in order to spot and call in experts to treat a termite infestation problem. Termites are so common here it is recommended to periodically inspect the home for termite activity and to take other preventative measures to protect your home and property from termites.Look for Mud TubesSubterranean termites live and breed in the ground, and they build pencil-sized “mud tubes” that connect their colony to your home. These mud tunnels are made from tiny pieces of wood, soil, termite feces and debris, and they allow termites access to food sources above and below ground. These wormlike mud tubes also protect the termite colony from predators and retain moisture within the tubes. If you have a termite infestation, you may find these dirt tubes around the foundation of your home. Sometimes you’ll even spot them hanging from the rafters in your basement or attic. Many of these tubes are behind walls and hidden from view.Identify Termite SwarmsBoth subterranean and drywood termites create termite swarms as they reproduce. In Arizona, both species are attracted to light, and you will typically find them in light fixtures around your home and in windowsills. Males will often fly up into the light cover on your ceiling fixture, and you’ll see a large swarm of them lying in the bottom of the cover. Subterranean termites tend to create massive colonies, producing anywhere from hundreds to thousands of termites in the swarm. Drywood termites are a bit sneakier because they produce small swarms, only ranging from 10 to 100 per colony. Free Termite Home Inspection CALL NOW GET QUOTEExcludes close of escrow WDIIR reportsTermite DroppingsDrywood termites tend to leave behind droppings after they consume wood, and these droppings are commonly referred to as “frass.” Frass can be all kinds of different colors depending on the type of wood the termites have been eating. Oddly enough, termites are good housekeepers, so they push droppings out of their home and into yours. The droppings from their colonies will form in little piles next to the infested wood. If you see these little piles of feces next to a small hole in the wall, there’s a pretty good chance you have a termite infestation. Their feces tend to smell like mold and mildew, look like piles of coffee grounds and are pretty easy to spot.Discarded WingsTermites are active year-round in Phoenix, Arizona. We experience an increase in termite activity during the springtime and the monsoon season because of the rain during these periods. Moisture is a conducive condition to termite activity. During these seasons, winged male termites and female termites without wings mate and form new colonies. Immediately following their reproductive cycle, the male termites shed their wings. Although often difficult to identify and spot, at times, you may be able to see a pile of discarded wings around your home. These wings are different than your typical insect wing because they are clear and look a lot like fish scales.Buckled or Warped WoodSigns of termites on the inside or outside of your home may appear to look like water damage at first, especially because termite infestations produce a scent similar to mold and mildew. Buckling wood, warped floors, swollen ceilings, and cracks in your walls and on the floors could be signs of termites – especially if you notice these issues in areas where there is no possibility for water damage. It can be tough to decipher whether or not these are signs of termites or if it is indeed water damage, but either way, it’s important to get these areas of your home checked out. Neither water damage nor termites are issues you want to leave unresolved for long.If you live in the Phoenix area and need termite control, click here to get your free estimate! We serve the entire metro area from Gilbert to Scottsdale and Mesa.Related: Termidor Termite Treatment
Formosan, Drywood, Dampwood: Which Type of Termite Do You Have? September 23, 2014 - By: Nathan Woolf Unfortunately, termites aren’t just one insect. There are many different termite species, which will differ depending on where your home is located. Although each species has different characteristics, the one thing they all have in common is the ability to cause severe structural damage to your home.Related: Why Choose Blue Sky Pest Control for Termite Treatment?The five most common types of termites include Dampwood, Drywood, Formosan, Subterranean, and Conehead. If you’re worried you may have a termite infestation, there are different signs depending on the type of termite you have. Knowing the differences between the species of termites can help you quickly recognize any signs of damage and allow you to expedite the extermination process.Dampwood TermitesDampwood termites are aptly named because they are drawn to damp, decaying wood to form their colonies. Unlike Subterranean termites, Dampwood termites do not nest in the soil, however, they will invade wood that is placed on the ground, especially if it is decaying. Dampwood termites are one of the larger species of termites, with the swarmers reaching 25 mm long, and the “soldiers” being as large as 20 mm. You can tell the Dampwood termites apart from some of the other species by their heads, which are large and have pinchers on the front. The most common place to find this particular species of termite is along the Pacific Coast, the Southwest desert, and southern Florida.Drywood TermitesBreaking the typical pattern of other species of termites, the Drywood termites need very little moisture, hence the name “Drywood.” Their colonies are usually formed in wood – most commonly, wood found in attics – and they don’t need to have any contact with the soil around your home. Since these termites aren’t as attracted to moisture, they actually extract water from their feces in order to conserve it, and then push the pellets out of their tunnel. These fecal pellets are called frass, and mounds of these (which look like piles of coffee grounds) in your home indicate termite activity.Formosan TermitesCommonly found across the South, the Formosan termites prefer warm climates. They are usually located in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina, Texas, and Tennessee, but have also been found in California, Hawaii, and even as far north as the Canadian border. Unlike Drywood termites, Formosan termites nest in the soil and invade homes from the soil directly through “wood to ground contact.” They also commonly build mud tubes from soil and use those as a duct to get into structures. The queen in the colony can produce more than 1,000 eggs per day, and they eventually swarm to create new colonies. Common signs of damage from Formosan termites include sagging walls and plaster and wood that appears to have been sanded down. Luckily, for now, we do not have Formosan termites here in Phoenix, Arizona. The desert heat and lack of moisture are difficult environments for Formosan termites.Subterranean TermitesSubterranean termites are the most common type of termite found across the country. The desert subterranean termite is the termite we treat for 99% of the time here in the Phoenix, Arizona area. They live in colonies underground and build tunnels into structures in search of food. They also build mud tubes like the Formosan termites, and their diets consist of wood and other cellulose material – including carpets. There are three “castes” of a Subterranean termite colony, with each caste differing in size and defining features. The “workers” are 6 mm long and light-colored and wingless. The “soldiers” of the colony have pinchers and long heads. The “reproductives” are dark in color and they have two pairs of wings that are equal in length.When warm temperatures and heavy rainfall occur, these guys send out a swarm of winged termites that include males and females. A common mistake many homeowners make is misidentifying a flying ant as a subterranean termite and vice versa. A good way to be sure to tell the difference is to check the wings. Flying ants have two large wings in front and two smaller wings behind, but termites have four wings that are all the same size, resembling fish scales. You’ll know if you have a termite infestation in your home if you find piles of these wings in your home, particularly in windowsills.Conehead TermitesConehead termites get their name because the “soldiers” have a dark, cone-shaped head. These soldiers make up about 20 percent to 30 percent of the entire Conehead colony, whereas soldiers in Subterranean and Drywood colonies only make up about 2 percent. These particular termites are most commonly found in the Caribbean and Central American tropical countries, such as Panama, however, since 2001, they have also been found in the most southern part of Florida. Conehead termites usually infest and consume shrubs, trees, roots, fence posts, furniture, and paper products, as well as anything that contains cellulose.Conehead tunnels also look different than the typical mud tunnels of the Subterranean termites. Conehead tunnels are larger, wider, and more extensive, and they create nests in trees that are out in the open. The nest looks like a large, bumpy brown ball, almost like a beehive. Contact us to get a free termite inspection anywhere in the Phoenix area including Gilbert, Surprise, and Mesa! We do commercial and residential termite control!Related: Signs Of Termites
The Three Types of Arizona Termites September 12, 2013 - By: Nathan Woolf Did you know that there are more than 2,700 named termite species in the world? Of those, about 45 species live in the United States, and 30 of those cause damage to wood and wood products, according to the University of Arizona.Here in Arizona, there are about 17 species of termites present, but only three of them are of particular concern to homeowners: dampwood termites, drywood termites, and subterranean termites. Read on to learn more about each of these species, how to identify them, and what damage they can cause. If you live in the Phoenix area and need help with termite control, click here to get your free quote. We serve everywhere from Mesa to Scottsdale and Surprise.Related: Signs Of TermitesDampwood TermitesIn Arizona, dampwood termites are not considered a widespread problem, but can cause damage under some conditions. They typically infest wood at or slightly below ground level, and attacks the moist wood of living trees and shrubs. They do not build mud shelter tubes aboveground to reach food sources, and do not live underground.In Arizona, dampwood termites often attack citrus trees and desert shrubs, and use the sap as moisture.Dampwood termite nymphs are up to ¾-inch long, while swarmers can reach up to 1 inch in length.Drywood TermitesDrywood termites are considered a more widespread problem in Arizona. They can infest wood that is not in contact with the ground. They do not live underground, and do not construct mud tubes. Infestations can occasionally be found in furniture or other wood products. Tehy6 typically attack all forms of dry, sound wood aboveground.These termites can fly, and have been known to buzz around on sunny days during the summer. Unlike the subterranean termite, drywood termite swarms don’t typically coincide with rains.Drywood termites are very easy to identify, although their infestations are harder to detect. They are larger than subterranean termites by about half an inch. Soldiers have large jaws, and the adult bodies are two-toned in color, with a brown head and thorax, and a brownish-black abdomen. Drywood termites are often found around doors and windowsills. A good indication of drywood termite infestation is the presence of dry, hard fecal pellets that form small piles.Subterranean TermitesThe subterranean termite is the species with the biggest impact on Arizona homeowners. They get their name from the fact that they live underground and use the soil as a source of moisture. To move into a food source above ground, these termites construct mud tubes made of fecal matter, soil and wood chips. If you see these tubes in or around your home, chances are you have a subterranean termite problem.Subterranean termites are voracious eaters and can digest cellulose, a tough plant fiber. Wood is their primary food source and they spend most of their time hunting for it – they don’t even sleep! In arid areas, subterranean termites typically eat many types of wood such as cactus ribs or desert trees. When homes are built in desert areas, termites often attack human structures as a replacement for their natural food sources. When looking for food or water and infesting a home, termites can damage many other materials, as well, such as paper products, insulation, pool liners, stucco, and non-synthetic carpet.Adult SwarmsWinged adult swarms typically take place during the monsoon season from July to September. Winged adults are a pale yellowish-brown, about half an inch long with wings. Soldier termites are usually about ¼-inch long, with nearly straight jaws. The head is rectangular in shape.Wood with a honeycombed appearance, as well as the presence of mud tubes protruding through walls, ceilings or floors, are signs of a subterranean termite infestation. Use a good flashlight and look for tuber along your home’s foundation wall at the soil line, cracks in concrete floors, or places where pipes and ducts enter your home. If you tap infested wood with a screwdriver, it will sound hollow, or the screwdriver may break through the wood if there is extensive damage.Checking for Arizona TermitesThe best way to check for an infestation of drywood or subterranean termites is to call a pest management professional. At Blue Sky, we offer a free, no-obligation termite inspection to assess your home for damage and possible infestations.The University of Arizona Cooperative Extension does not recommend tackling a termite infestation on your own, as it can be difficult to treat without the proper knowledge, products, and equipment.If you suspect a termite infestation from one of Arizona’s top termite species, give us a call to prevent further damage to your home. We do home and commercial pest control all throughout the Phoenix area including Gilbert.Related: Termite Control in Phoenix
Beyond the Wood: Other Areas Where Termite Damage Can Occur September 5, 2013 - By: Nathan Woolf Quick: think about termites. What’s the first image that comes to mind?You probably saw a termite colony happily munching away on the wood in your home. But did you know that there are many other areas where termites can do serious damage? We’ve outlined a few of the most common – and surprising – ones below. If you live in the Phoenix area and need termite control, we can help!Related: Signs of TermitesTermite DietTermites live on a diet of cellulose, which is found in plant fiber. Cellulose is very difficult to digest, which is why you don’t see many other animals or insects that subsist on a cellulose-only diet. Termites have special microbes and bacteria in their gut that help them digest this tough fiber. They’re also rather single-minded about their eating obsession – termites are so focused on finding and eating food sources that they don’t even sleep! They can also construct tubes up to 60 feet long in pursuit of a food source.Since termites are able to digest cellulose, almost anything that is made up of plant fiber is fair game in their diets. They’re kind of like the goats of the pest world, as they really will eat almost anything!Clothing: Many of your favorite clothes start out as plant fibers. For instance, anything made of cotton is fair game. Termites won’t hesitate to eat through clothing as an alternative food source.Pool Liners: In addition to being voracious eaters, termites are also thirsty bugs! If their need for water is great enough, they will eat through pool liners to get the precious water inside. While termites can’t digest the plastic used in pool liners, they can eat holes through them to access water. While it can be hard to notice the water weeping out through the holes at first, it will become faster and more noticeable as the termites create more access holes.Pool Framing: Most in-ground pools are constructed with a wooden frame with liners installed over the wood. While this wood is typically treated against moisture and decay, these treatments wear off over time, and the moist wood located in the ground is a perfect food source for termites. Concrete in-ground pools don’t typically have termite troubles.Pool Filtration Systems: Termites can eat through a variety of different materials such as plastic, rubber and soft metal materials – all of which can be found in your pool filtration system. They can cause significant damage!Books: If you have boxes of books in your basement – especially on the floor or against a wall – you might want to check them for termites! Since books are made of paper, they are an excellent alternative food source when termites can’t find the wood they prefer.Animal Dung: Since most animals can’t digest tough cellulose, there is usually plant material in feces. In tropical or desert climates when there are no other food sources available, termites will take advantage of the cellulose in animal dung.Furniture: Drywood termites can fly, and they don’t need to burrow through your home’s foundation to find food. In fact, since they don’t need much water, this species of termite can burrow into your comfy couch and live there undetected for years.Gold and Minerals: In Australia, soil-feeding termites eat dirt to get at plant fiber. They inadvertently eat any gold or other minerals found in the soil, as well – some termites have even left traces of gold in their excrement!Money: Yep, it’s made of plant fiber, too! Termites have done damage to large amounts of money that were improperly stored – check out this article, where termites ate through a woman’s entire life’s savings! If you’re keeping your cash under a mattress, you might want to think about opening a savings account.Carpet: The most common termite in Arizona, the subterranean termite, finds food sources by burrowing into your home’s foundation. If they happen to surface on a floor that is covered with non-synthetic carpet, they’ll eat their way through that, too!Fungus: Some termite practice “farming”! They cultivate fungus colonies so they can eat them when they are mature.Insulation: Even though most insulation is not made of plant fibers, its soft texture allows termites to burrow through and construct tubes on their way to wood food sources. They also eat the paper that covers some insulation materials.Termite Damage Areas ConclusionThe lesson here is simple: keep an eye on your home for termite damage! It just might not be in the places you expect. Be sure to schedule your free termite inspection so you have all your bases covered. We provide termite control and prevention for homes and businesses. If you live in the Phoenix area, including Surprise, Gilbert, and Scottsdale, we can help you with your termite problems!Related: Types of Termites in Arizona
