Category: Termites

How Termite Baiting Disrupts Entire Colonies

Termite bait stations play a pivotal role in strategically combating and defending against termites, particularly subterranean termites, the most prevalent species not only in Texas, but also throughout the United States. These dangerous pests, which construct intricate networks of underground tunnels while foraging for sustenance, are notorious for their 24/7 feeding habits, posing a persistent threat to your home.  Traditionally, termiticide can be sprayed on and around a home to kill termites and create a barrier to keep the rest away, but this method has its limitations. Termite baiting has become increasingly popular among professional termite control experts, and with good reason. Let’s discuss how termite baiting works and how it can disrupt and eliminate an entire termite colony. Advantages of Termite Baiting Termite bait stations offer several benefits, including: By having termite bait stations deployed strategically, you can ensure your defense against these persistent pests will safeguard your home and family effectively. The Mechanics of Termite Bait Stations What makes termite bait stations so effective against termites? Also termed as “termite traps,” bait stations are strategically positioned either in or above the ground surrounding your property. The stations don’t trap termites, per se, but they house bait, often consisting of laced wood, paper, or cellulose, which termites feast upon and subsequently transmit to other members of their colony, leading to its eradication. Worker termites, during their search for food sources near the colony, encounter this bait, ingest it, and disseminate it to their fellow colony members. Most baits act gradually, permitting termites to return to the colony and extend the contagion to others. Many baits also contain insect growth regulators (IGRs) which disrupt the termites’ ability to breed and reproduce. The resulting domino effect disrupts the entire colony and eventually leads to its end. Outdoor termite bait stations typically find placement in areas heavily frequented by termites. In-ground bait stations exclusively target subterranean termites, pinpointing their habitat. Must Read:8 FACTS ABOUT RACCOONS IN YOUR HOME Effectiveness of Termite Bait Stations Bait stations can serve as a potent, long-term solution for termite woes. While their bait operates on a slow-release principle, it facilitates the annihilation of all termite castes, including reproductives, soldiers, and workers.  Nonetheless, several factors can influence the efficacy of these stations. Placement is paramount. Bait stations should be positioned roughly 2–4 feet away from a structure’s foundation, spaced at intervals of 10–20 feet from one another. Their placement should align with areas of termite activity or suspicion, encompassing locations near woodpiles, tree stumps, and damp areas. DIY vs. Professional Pest Control Bait Monitoring Systems In cases where termites are visible or their presence is detectable within your home, the temptation to handle the issue personally may arise. However, even if you manage to deal with the termites you can see, concealed structural damage may persist unnoticed. There is way too much at stake for inexperienced homeowners to take chances with the safety of their home and family. While certain store-bought termite bait stations bear resemblance to the bait utilized in some pest control professionals’ bait monitoring systems, DIY termite treatments frequently fall short due to improper use. Identifying diverse termite species, understanding their behaviors, and discerning areas of high termite activity are skills most homeowners lack. Professional pest control companies not only possess the appropriate equipment but also offer effective solutions, continuous monitoring and maintenance, and expert knowledge to address termite problems competently. They will know how to determine the appropriate termite treatment required for your specific situation.  Stuck with a termite problem? Despite all the preventive measures you can take, termites and other pests can just become overwhelming. Not to mention the fact that, termites can cause dangerous (and VERY costly) damage to your home’s infrastructure. Calling a professional termite control service is always much more cost-effective and a timesaver in the long run if you feel you are overwhelmed with termites and/or other pests in your home or yard.  Call our North Houston area (e.g.,  (primarily Cleveland, Kingwood, Atascosita, New Caney, Humble, Porter, Conroe, Splendora, and other communities in the North Houston area) FullScope termite and pest control experts today at 832-898-0190 for a consultation. Or email us at info@fullscopepestcontrol.com. We can quickly help you get your termite problems under control, as well as other expensive pest problems in your home, yard, or business. We use Sentricon Termite Baiting Stations as a long-term solution to help home and business owners like you get rid of their termite problems fast.

Termite Baiting Economics: 

Saving Money and Preventing Costly Damage You might underestimate the impact of termites, but as a Texas homeowner, their presence can spell significant trouble. Termites don’t discriminate; they wreak havoc on both residential and commercial properties, often resulting in substantial, expensive damage. Often much of this damage is incurred before the termites are even detected. If left unchecked, this damage can lead to repair costs totaling in the hundreds or thousands–termites do cause over $5 billion dollars in property damage in the United States every year. Baiting has evolved as a widely spread effective method of termite control, even more so than traditional termiticide applications. Let’s discuss some of the ways remaining vigilant over potential termite outbreaks can save you money in the long run and prevent damage to your home. Wooden Structures Are Very Vulnerable Termites have an insatiable appetite for wood, making homes and businesses constructed primarily of this material prime targets for these tiny yet destructive pests. While their initial damage may seem cosmetic, it can escalate, posing risks to the structural integrity of the building. Additionally, termite-infested structures are more susceptible to rot, which can significantly depreciate your property’s value. Acting early can save not only your home, but also save you plenty of costly repair expenses. Must Read: WASP EXTERMINATION: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE Take Proactive Measures If you reside in a termite-prone area (and yes, Texas is a termite-friendly environment), investing in preventative services can prove invaluable. Early-stage termite treatment eradicates these pests before they inflict damage and it also deters their return, potentially saving you substantial repair expenses down the road. Enlisting the expertise of professional termite control experts can also spare you from enduring immense stress. Also, as a preventive maintenance issue, it’s not a bad idea to have your home inspected for termites at least once every year. You should definitely have a home inspected for termites before purchasing it.  Speaking of being proactive, if you’re building new, you might want to look into using termite-resistant wood or at least pressure-treated wood treated with copper boron azole (CBA) or alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ). Using wood treated to fend off termites doesn’t 100% guarantee protection, but it sure reduces the chances of a termite infestation. Woods known to be naturally resistant to termites include teak, redwood, Alaskan Yellow Cedar, Honduran Mahogany, and Peruvian Walnut). Treatment for an Effective Solution Two common methods of termite treatment exist. The first involves spraying termiticides, which promptly eliminate termites and prevent their resurgence.  Many experts will tell you that a bait system works even better. Baits, devoid of chemicals, offer an alternative for certain structures. Although bait solutions work more gradually than termiticides, they ultimately eliminate entire termite colonies, increasing the chances of the termites never making a resurgence. A Warmer Climate Haven Termites flourish in warm climates abundant in wood, making them a frequent concern in regions like Texas and the rest of the American Southeast. If you reside in a termite-prone area, don’t procrastinate termite treatment for your property. This investment will safeguard your home, saving you invaluable sums of money and shielding you from years of stress. Stuck with a termite problem? Despite all the preventive measures you can take, termites and other pests can just become overwhelming. Not to mention the fact that, termites can cause dangerous (and VERY costly) damage to your home’s infrastructure. Calling a professional termite control service is always much more cost-effective and a timesaver in the long run if you feel you are overwhelmed with termites and/or other pests in your home or yard.  Call our North Houston area (e.g.,  (primarily Cleveland, Kingwood, Atascosita, New Caney, Humble, Porter, Conroe, Splendora, and other communities in the North Houston area) FullScope termite and pest control experts today at 832-898-0190 for a consultation. Or email us at info@fullscopepestcontrol.com. We can quickly help you get your termite problems under control, as well as other expensive pest problems in your home, yard, or business. We use Sentricon Termite Baiting Stations as a long-term solution to help home and business owners like you get rid of their termite problems fast.

How Long Does Termite Inspection Take

If you assume termites have infested your home, you want them exterminated immediately. A professional termite inspection is the first step in complete termite elimination. A technician will conduct a thorough inspection to determine if termites are present on the property. Termite inspections usually take one to two hours, depending on the property’s size. Let’s see how long this particular inspection might take by looking at factors that affect its duration: The Property’s Condition Assessing an older home typically requires more time and energy than evaluating a brand-new building. The same is true for a recently refurbished house. A thorough evaluation is needed to ensure that the freshly renovated property is entirely free of nagging issues. Infestation Size If the property you want to be examined has a history of pest infestation, the technician may need the entire day to establish the amount of pest activity. The size of the building and how intrusive an inspector is will affect how long it takes to inspect. Knowledge and Expertise A local inspector can complete the work more quickly than a non-local one. Their familiarity with prevalent local pests will help them meet the check more quickly. An expert can work faster because of their experience and knowledge in this field, which means you get your report quicker. What Happens During The Inspection? During the inspection, the technician will thoroughly examine every area of your property. They will concentrate on areas where termites like to live and conceal themselves, such as baseboards, door frames, cabinets, closets, and crawl spaces. The technician will spend significant time in the kitchen, bathrooms, and utility rooms. Termites use pipes to circumvent concrete barriers and enter a residence. Keeping these areas clear of clutter enables the pest control expert to detect even the tiniest indications of an infestation. After inspecting the interior, the technician will conduct an exterior inspection. The exterior walls, eaves, and foundation will be checked for damage. Additionally, they will examine other areas of the property for mounds and damaged wood. What Happens After The Inspection? After examining your property, the technician will provide you with a report. If termites were discovered, the message would detail the approximate size and location of the infestation. They’ll also outline any damages and any other pertinent information.  The technician will then estimate treatment, repairs, and follow-up removal requirements. They will collaborate with you to determine the most effective termite treatment for your needs and budget. In addition to eliminating the current infestation, preventative spraying may be beneficial. It is frequently the most cost-effective method of termite prevention. Location, the type of structure you need to protect, and other variables will determine the best preventative measures. Must Read: CAN PEST CONTROL SPRAY FOR TICKS What’s Next? When choosing between different pest control companies, the time they spend inspecting your property is essential. However, effectiveness is also significant in determining which treatment will work best for you. When you need a termite inspection on your current or prospective property, call Fullscope Pest Control! Our team will carefully inspect your property and determine whether you need to take preventative measures or if it’s time to treat an existing infestation. Contact us now!

What Causes Flying Termites In Your House

Most people have heard horror stories about termites causing thousands of dollars in damage to a valuable home or asset. However, few people know the warning signs of a termite infestation. If you notice termites with wings on your property, you may have a serious problem. How Did I Get Flying Termites? Male and female reproductive termites, or alates, emerge from established colonies to mate and start new colonies in new locations. A large colony of termites may be nearby if you see a swarm flying near your house. A live infestation may be present if a resident finds multiple alates inside, sees their shed wings near doors and windows, or spots them emerging from the house’s exterior. How Serious Are Flying Termites? Termites are notoriously destructive pests. Alates production typically occurs after a colony has been established for three to six years. Workers feeding on wood may cause expensive damage to buildings during this time and for as long as the colony is active. These termites are in the worker stage, eating the softer inner parts of the wood while leaving the tougher outer layers alone. Years may pass before a building owner discovers mud tubes, cracks, or the collapse of wood due to a termite infestation. Swarms of flying termites should be taken as a warning sign of impending damage to a home. Termites can cause structural damage to home if left untreated. Termite colonies can be very large in a structure and the surrounding soil. Swarms When a colony of termites swarms, the individuals take to the air. Heavy precipitation and warm, humid weather are the leading causes of swarms. To reproduce, established colonies will swarm when male and female termites develop wings. Fertilized termites will then shed their wings after mating flights and begin establishing new colonies. The presence of winged termites inside a house signifies a well-developed colony, and termite swarmers on the interior of a home should not be taken lightly. Possibly Resemble Ants While flying termites resemble winged ants, they have distinct differences in appearance. The waist of ants is constricted, whereas the waist of termites is more straight-sided. Termites have four equal-sized wings. Ant antennae bend at 90-degree angles, whereas termite antennae are straight. Facts About Flying Termites How To Reduce the Risk from Termite Swarms Infestations of termites can be caused by the buildup of moisture in wood, which can occur when a tree on your property falls or if a piece of wood comes into contact with the soil. Preventing a termite infestation requires routine checks of your home. Must Read: HOW DO YOU GET RID OF BIG BLACK ANTS Conclusion Call Fullscope Pest Control today for a free termite inspection of your home if you need assistance determining whether or not you have activity. Our technicians are highly trained in the art of termite control, so you can rest assured that they will get the job done right. We want to help keep your home pests-free for as long as possible, so we’ll work with you closely to ensure everything goes smoothly.

5 Tips for Termite Control in Your Home

Termites are one of the most destructive pests that can invade your home. Each year, they cause billions of dollars in damage to homes and businesses in the United States. If you suspect that you have a termite problem, it’s important to take action immediately to get rid of them and prevent further damage. Here are five tips for termite control: 1. Schedule an inspection: The first step in termite control is to schedule an inspection with a qualified pest control professional. They will be able to identify the type of termites that are infesting your home and recommend the best course of treatment. 2. Eliminate moisture: Moisture is one of the things that attract termites to your home. Be sure to fix any leaks, repair any damaged gutters or downspouts, and keep your yard free of standing water. 3. Seal off entry points: Once you’ve eliminated moisture, seal off any potential entry points that termites could use to get into your home. This includes cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows and doors, and openings for vents and pipes. 4. Remove wood debris: Wood debris around your home is another attractant for termites. Be sure to remove any decaying wood, stumps, or fallen trees from your property. If you have a wood pile, keep it away from your house. 5. Use bait stations: Bait stations are an effective way to get rid of termites and prevent them from coming back. The stations are placed around your property and contain a bait that attracts termites. Once they eat the bait, they take it back to their nest where it kills the rest of the colony.  Must Read: HOW TO SPOT EARLY SIGNS OF A RACCOON INFESTATION IN YOUR HOME Conclusion:  Termites are extremely destructive pests that can do a lot of damage to your home if they’re not controlled properly. By following these five tips, you can get rid of existing termites and help prevent them from coming back in the future. If you have any concerns or questions about termite control, be sure to talk to a pest control professional who can help you create a plan that’s specific to your needs.

The Top 10 Termite Mistakes What homeowners do to invite termites

Termites. They’re hungry. And to them, your house is food. Is there anything you can do to stop them? Can you make your home less appetizing? More than 100 termite experts ─ with a combined 2,000 years of experience ─ say these are the top 10 mistakes homeowners make when it comes to termites: 10. Repairing utilities on the property disrupting the termite soil treatment. If your lawn gets dug up for plumbing, gas or electrical work, chances are good you’ve compromised your termite treatment if your home has been treated with a liquid termiticide. 09. Piling excessive mulch around the home Termites love mulch. Too much up against your home holds soil moisture and can be an easy food source for hungry termites. “The mulch typically used around homes is often a soft wood like pine, which is a great food source for termites,” says Camille Landry of FullScope Pest Control. “I’ve seen termites foraging in and around the mulch just 1 inch deep. If the mulch is piled very high up on the foundation of a structure, it makes a natural bridge the termites can use to enter the structure.” 08. Digging around the home’s foundation disrupting a termite treatment. Liquid termite treatments around your foundation are effective only if left undisturbed. So if you dig around your house to plant a new rosebush, you might have opened a hole for termites to crawl through. If your home is protected by a baiting product such as the Sentricon® System, digging around your foundation isn’t a concern as long as the stations stay in place. Must Read: BROWN RECLUSE SPIDERS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW 07. Leaving old tree stumps in the yard Dead trees are desirable to termites ─ almost as desirable as your house. Stumps in your yard can serve as a launch pad for an attack on your home. 6. Stacking firewood near the home If you put firewood up against your house, you might as well also leave out a welcome mat for the termites. They can burrow into the woodpile and then right into your house. 05. Using do-it-yourself (DIY) products to try to control termites themselves Termite control is not like fixing a leaky faucet. Fail to do it right, and you and your home will most likely pay the price. This is one time you should leave it to the professionals. 04. Having untreated wooden materials next to the home. Yes, that new fence will keep Fido in your yard, but that untreated wood up against your house also might let termites in. It is best to use treated wood or vinyl fencing, or at least leave a gap between the fence and your home. 03. Constructing additions to the home without expanding termite protection. If you’ve added a sunroom, expanded your kitchen or poured a new patio, that addition needs to be protected from termites, too. Don’t offer up that beautiful new addition as a termite’s next meal. 02. Not fixing earth-to-ground structural wood contact. If a portion of your wood porch is touching soil, you’re asking for termites. Soil + wood contact = termites. 01. And the No. 1 mistake homeowners make when it comes to termites is: Not getting a professional termite inspection. Termites are not easy to detect, and failing to do so can cause thousands of dollars in damage. Trained professional termite inspectors know termite behavior ─ where they like to hide, what their damage looks like, what they leave behind as evidence. You don’t. Leave this one up to the professionals. “Homeowners don’t have the experience to know what to look for,” Derek Salazar says. “When we do an inspection, we can point out to the customer what we think are liabilities that would increase the incidence of termites in their home.” This survey was conducted in 2012 with Certified Sentricon Specialists® from across the country. To find a termite professional or to learn more about Sentricon, visit Sentricon.com or download the Sentricon System app through iTunes here.

5 Best Ways To Remove Termites

As some termites can cause severe, long-lasting damage, termites inside a home can be a significant problem for homeowners. These bugs will establish a colony inside a house where they will eat the wood and cause damage. Termites can harm a home’s structural stability severely and sometimes permanently if they are not dealt with quickly and effectively. Hence, these are the top 5 ways to remove termites. Termiticide Defenses Termite-killing products designed for professionals may be available depending on your location. These traditional termite treatments are applied to the exterior perimeter of your home to create a barrier. Termites cannot detect termiticide and thus do not attempt to avoid it. A termite will die if it consumes termiticide-treated materials. Termiticides work similarly to viruses in that they spread. When one termite comes into contact with termiticide, it unknowingly spreads it to other termites, infecting them and ultimately killing the colony. Boric Acid Boric acid is a tried-and-true method of termite control. Many termite insecticides on the market contain highly effective boric acid as the main ingredient. Boric acid is toxic to termites because it causes them to dehydrate and shut down their nervous systems, ultimately leading to death. Just spray the acid into the holes and crevices on the ground, walls, and ceilings. Insecticides Foam termite treatments, such as Termidor, can penetrate deep into cracks and crevices to eradicate hidden termites. The space will be filled with foam, and when it evaporates, it will leave an insecticide behind, killing any termites who come into contact with it. You can use dust agents to eliminate any remaining termites that foam or liquid treatments have missed. Read all insecticide instructions carefully and avoid using them around pets or children. Another advantage is that foams frequently work to eliminate ants and termites, providing an additional layer of pest control. Beneficial Nematodes The nematodes kill termites by injecting a specific type of bacteria into their body, so there is a high probability that the entire colony will be affected. They’re simple to use and safe for both people and animals. Spraying them into the yard, garage, basement, and other contaminated areas would be best. Orange Essential Oil Orange peel makes orange essential oil, which has the insecticidal chemical D-limonene. Insects are repelled and killed by this compound. This strategy for preventing termites relies on a certain concentration of citric acid within the D-limonene molecule. This acid degrades the termite’s backbone, which in turn causes it to lose water and protein until it eventually expires. Must Read: HOW TO KEEP BOXELDER BUGS OUT YOUR HOME THIS WINTER Final Thoughts If you have a termite problem, it’s better to call an exterminator than try DIY methods. This will ensure that they’re not just repelled but actually killed. When hiring a professional, you can rest assured that they will have a thorough understanding of the chemicals and equipment required to complete the task at hand. Also read about How to keep Boxelder Bugs out of this winter. At Fullscope Pest Control, we provide the most effective pest control service with a strategy created especially for your needs and budget limit. We’re here to help you keep your home termite-free, so give us a call today!

Does Pest Control Include Termites?

Do you have concerns about termite damage? In such a case, you’re not alone. Property owners pay over $2 billion annually on termite control. Termites wreak billions of dollars in damage to buildings each year. This post will educate you, as a customer, on how to recognize termite damage and what you need to do to keep these pests out of your house. If I Have Termites, How Can I Tell? Keeping an eye out for termites is the first line of defense. Termites seldom emerge from their tunnels in the ground, mud, or food sources. It is not until a swarm appears or damage is discovered during building that most individuals realize they have termites. Following are a few of the methods you may check for termites: Use a flathead screwdriver or similar instrument to poke the exposed wood for hollow places. Recognizing a swarm of ants from a swarm of termites is critical. Ants The wingspan is significantly wider at the front than at the back. The antennas are bent at a 90-degree angle. Termites The span of both wings is nearly equivalent. Its antennae are straight and may droop. Pest Management vs. Termite Treatment Termite control is very different from standard pest control. Most termites are too well protected underground or in mud tubes to be eradicated by conventional pest management methods. Specialized chemicals developed to eliminate an entire termite colony, as opposed to just a few, are necessary for effective termite management. Subterranean termites, for example, construct mud tubes underground and reside in them. Subterranean termites build “mud tubes” out of their excrement to reach their food source because furniture and walls are crafted from wood. Professional solutions must be put to the ground surrounding the foundation to eradicate these Termites properly. When you hire us for termite control, they will dig trenches around the perimeter of your home and drill into the soil under any concrete slabs to eradicate any lingering colonies. Pest Control In most cases, pest control treatments are used externally. They are most effective against insects that can move freely, such as crickets, desert roaches, spiders, ants, earwigs, centipedes, etc. Flying pests that land in treated areas may also be eliminated. Also read How to control the Spider webs in home However, Subterranean Termites in their fortified mud tubes and underground colonies are impenetrable to standard pest management methods. While termite treatment is a separate service, our technicians check for the little buggers throughout every visit. Let’s Stop Termite Infestation Now! There are occasions when pest treatment on your own isn’t possible. A professional certified pest control operator is the one to call for jobs like these. If you need pest control, hire someone who has the appropriate license. That’s when Fullscope Pest Control got your back. When working with us, you’ll always know what’s happening with termites and how to handle the situation effectively. Our blog on recognizing and eliminating termites is provided with the hope that it will be helpful to the reader. With 30 years and more in the business, we are the go-to exterminators in this region. Just dial 832-898-0190 now! Schedule your termite inspection now!

Things to Know About Flying Termites

Have you ever observed how flying insects flock to light bulbs during the rainy season? If they happen to be flying termites, believe it or not, they might be the start of your household nightmare. They are social insects with distinct castes: workers, soldiers, kings, queens, and, last but not least, alates – also known as flying termites. Furthermore, flying termites are winged reproductive insects that swarm out from the nest to form new colonies. They frequently appear when the humidity is high, usually in the evening after the rain, and are drawn to well-lit regions. One of the unmistakable indicators of termite infestation is this. Are you one of those aspirants who want to learn more about flying termites? This knowledge might save you hundreds of dollars in repair costs. As a result, learn more. In any case, the following are some facts regarding flying termites: 1.Not all termites have the ability to fly. Termites are not classified as flying insects. Only a few termites can fly, and they can only do so for a brief time before losing their wings. Only the alates can fly among the termite castes since they are the only ones with wings. These are the only termites with sexual development and will be the kings and queens of the termite colonies the following season. Swarms refer to termite flight patterns and behaviors. 2.Termites swarm to reproduce and establish new colonies. The termite life cycle begins with termites swarming to reproduce and establish new colonies. During this time, sexually mature male and female winged termites leave their nests and fly. This is known as nuptial flight, and it is also undertaken by other insects such as ants. After leaving their nest, the winged termites aggregate in the air (swarms) and mate with other colonies of the same species. After successfully mating, the termites will land, drop their wings, and establish a new colony. 3.Flying termites emerge at random or when the light draws them. Flying termites are drawn to light. This collection of flying insects has shed their wings and begins to crawl around on the floor without their wings for an unknown amount of time before dying. Also, read Why Mosquitos Bites me so much. 4.Flying termites have a distinct appearance and may be identified by attentively inspecting them. Flying termites seem different from other flying insects and may be identified by attentively inspecting them. They are often the same beige or tan hue as the other termite castes. They have two antennae that are typically straight with a slight bend and two sets of wings equal in length, white, translucent, and veiny. Termites are classed depending on their body shape. The flying termite and wingless termite have a solitary thick body feature. Unlike ants, Termites do not have a constriction between their thorax and abdomen. Recommended Read:  What Causes Flying Termites in Your House Conclusion Because flying termites make up such a small fraction of all termites, the best strategy to eliminate them is to eradicate all termites in general. Termite removal from your property will deal with flying termites and minimize and limit the spread of termite colonies in your region. Are you concerned about flying termites? Contact Fullscope Pest Control immediately to learn how to protect your house against termite damage.

Types Of Wood-Destroying Insects In Texas

Wood-destroying insects (WDIs) consume and chew on wood, as one might assume. These insects create headaches as well as money for repairs. They are cunning, forming huge colonies within the confines of your home. Furthermore, they frequently go unnoticed for years, implying that you may be living with them right now. Termites Termites are winged insects that feed on the cellulose in wood and chew through it, creating a network of tunnels. The wood appears good on the surface, but it crumbles when pushed with a screwdriver or other tool. The most frequent varieties are subterranean and dry wood termites. Subterranean termites live underground and require moisture to survive. They infest wood that is close to the soil, particularly in moist basements, and are commonly found in foundation joists and structural lumber. Drywood termites, as the name implies, consume dry wood such as structural lumber, fence posts, and dead tree branches. They do not build their nests underground and then enter your home through the roof. Powderpost Beetles Powderpost beetles have elongated bodies and short heads. Depending on the species, they range in length from 1/8 to 3/4 inches. Powderpost beetles lay their eggs on top of or near the surface of the wood. When the eggs hatch, the larvae eat on the wood for one to five years, chewing a tunnel to the surface. Hard and softwoods are both eaten by bugs. The species determines the type of wood consumed, and damage is frequently observed in floors, planks, paneling, door frames, furniture, and molding. Carpenter Ants Carpenter ants don’t eat wood, but they use it to build colonies. Depending on the species, these huge ants appear in a variety of hues, such as red, black, yellow, and brown. Carpenter ants, like termites, have wings. Unlike termites, which have equal-length wings, carpenter ants have longer front wings than back wings. Carpenter ants find the perfect entry point into your home through rotting wood. They’re frequently seen in basements or around rotting timber along window sills or leaky pipes. A carpenter ant infestation might be indicated by piles of wood shavings. Wood Borers Wood borers are a type of bug that consumes trees, acorns, and nuts. When these insects emerge as larvae, they leave holes in the wood, but they do not cause structural harm. Metallic wood borers, wood wasps, bark beetles, and long-horned beetles are examples of common wood-boring insects. The appearance of each species differs. Some are tiny, such as the 1/8-inch-long bark beetle, while others, such as the 2-inch-long long-horned beetle, are enormous. Timber borers are frequently discovered in firewood, log homes, and structural wood.  When it comes to destructive wood insects, don’t let them ruin your day or your home. Please follow your instincts and contact FullScope Pest Control if you suspect that you have a wood-destroying insect infestation in your home. Our professional termite and WDI inspectors are well-versed in the warning signs of these wood-destroying pests and know where to look for them in the first place.