Termites

Group of termites on branch.

Termites

Color: Varies by caste member; workers, soldiers, and swarmers are all different colors ranging from milky white to dark gray.

Characteristics: Termites are social insects living in colonies, some with as many as 2 million members, with each colony member having their own job to do.

Size: Varies by caste member, but generally range from 1/8 of an inch to 3/8 of an inch.

Potentially Dangerous: Yes, they are dangerous to your property.

What is a termite?

The most common termite in Madison, Eau Claire, and throughout Wisconsin and the surrounding areas is the Eastern subterranean termite. Termite colonies consist of three shapes: workers, soldiers, and swarmers.

  • Workers are the smallest termites, measuring around 1/8 of an inch long. They are blind, wingless, and soft-bodied and vary in color from creamy white to grayish-white. Workers are the most numerous in a colony and they are the termites that actually eat the wood, causing all the damage.
  • Soldiers resemble workers, except they are larger and have rectangular heads that are yellow-brown in color and feature a prominent set of jaws.
  • Swarmers are the termites responsible for reproduction. They can be male or female, and are winged or wingless. Swarmers vary in color from black to yellow-brown.

Why do I have termites?

Termites eat the cellulose that is contained in dead plant material. If materials such as leaf litter, wood, soil, and dung are present then it is possible termites may infest. If your neighbor has termites, swarming termites are likely to invade your property in order to make a new colony.  Termite treatments that begin at the property next to yours can also push termites onto your property.

Are termites dangerous?

Termites are not known to carry diseases, but they are damaging pests to have around. Termites primarily eat wood, though they will also go after cloth, paper, and carpets. The structural damage they can cause to a home or business can go undetected, until, for example, beams and foundational posts collapse, potentially causing injury.

Can I get rid of termites myself?

Treating for termites yourself is not recommended, as the equipment and pesticides that are most effective are not easily accessible. Hiring pest control professionals is the most effective way to eradicate termites on your property. For complete relief from termite infestations, contact Terminix Wil-Kil Pest Control. Our experience in the industry can go to work for you immediately.

How soon can we get there?

Our customers are our top priority. Your Terminix Wil-Kil technician is 100% committed to helping you as soon as possible.

How can I prevent termites in the future?

Termite prevention needs to focus on hindering the termite’s ability to find wood, water, and shelter. These simple steps can help:

  • Make sure downspouts and gutters direct all runoff away from the foundation
  • Use woods that are naturally resistant to termites
  • Remove old tree stumps around the property
  • Avoid using wood mulch near your foundation

Contact Terminix Wil-Kil For Effective Termite Control

One advantage you have against termites is that they are not the fastest-moving pests. They feed slowly and therefore expand their area slowly. Contacting Terminix Wil-Kil Pest Control at the first sign of a termite infestation is the best way to prevent major termite damage to your property.

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With Termite Awareness Week approaching March 13-19, 2016, it is important for Southeastern Wisconsin homeowners and businesses to stay vigilant and be aware of the possible signs of an infestation this spring. Known as the “silent destroyers,” termites cause an estimated $5 billion in property damage each year – that’s more damage to homes and businesses than all other natural disasters combined. Adding to the challenge, termite presence is difficult to detect as their activity is hidden behind wallboards, siding or wood trim.

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Termites in Sun Prairie, WI

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