Indianapolis Termites Rise from the Ground

Underneath the floorboards, something sinister (albeit small) is rising from the ground to feast on your home’s precious (and expensive) structure. Of course, you don’t know about this invasion until the damage is extensive enough to be seen through the walls. In Indianapolis, the termite that causes the most havoc is the Eastern subterranean termite. However, perhaps if you know the signs ahead of time, and call an Indianapolis pest professional while the colony is small, you may be able to save your home from significant damage.

Termite Habits

Subterranean termites depend on moisture to live. Because of this, they typically stay underground but move into the home to feed. Like expert thieves, they build “mud-tubes” in order to maintain essential moisture and enter the home. They are particularly hard to find because they hide their mud-tubes in areas of the home that are not easily inspected. They can find their way in through the smallest cracks.

They typically have a central colony underground and travel up to 100 ft to reach their food source. But if there is water damage within the walls with a constant supply of moisture, termites can settle within your home.

They start devouring the wood that is the closest the ground. But they will travel to the upper floors as they gnaw away your home’s structure. Note that they will tunnel through other material, like insulation, in order to reach food sources.

Termite Damage and Signs

Subterranean termites have caused millions of dollars in damage across the United States. In some areas, one in five homes have been or will be damaged by termites. What makes Eastern subterranean termites so destructive is their elusive nature. Subterranean termites eat individual cells in the wood, giving the damaged wood a “honeycomb” look. They “hallow” out the wood, and leave the exterior intact in order to hide their activities.

Many of the signs of termite damage may come too late. This includes buckled ceiling or floors, brittle walls or wood. It may look a lot like water damage. Other signs include mud-tubes, and swarms of winged termites, or wings from swarms. If you do see swarms in your home, you know that you have a well-established nest.

Call Insight Pest Control

If you suspect that termites are taking over your home, call a professional. If you happen to find where the termites are nesting, do not disturb them! Any indication of discovery, and termites will pick up their bags and move to another area, continuing to take advantage of your home’s structure. Let us, your local Indianapolis pest professionals, take care of the problem.