You’ve heard of termites, but have you ever heard of subterranean termites? The name, subterranean, means existing under the ground. These wood devouring pests were given their name since they live in large, completely underground colonies that thrive in moist soils and put a lot of work into infesting wood above ground. Subterranean termites make up most of the termite species found in Arizona and as you probably guessed, are very destructive to homes and surrounding wooden structures, trees and brush.

How Do Termites Get Into Your Home?

Subterranean termites are responsible for about 95% of all termite-related damage in the United States. They typically enter the home via piles of stacked wood or other plant materials near the foundation of the house. However, they can access basements and structural supports through long, narrow shelter tubes that connect the colony with other underground points or the surface itself.

Signs of Infestation

If you’re worried that termites may be knocking at your door, look for clear signs of infestation:

• Shelter tubes with exit points at the surface near your house or in the house itself
• Damaged wood, which may be evidenced by hollow-sounding supports, holes in the walls or structural supports, sagging beams and sloping floors
• Large numbers of winged termites near your home

Typically, it is extremely difficult to try and treat a termite infestation yourself, it can be nearly impossible to get rid of them. However, a professional pest control company has plenty of options to rid your home of termites, but there are many factors to consider. Looking at the area of the infestation as well as the type of soil and foundation of the structure Cummings will come up with a customized treatment plan that will work best for your home.