Termites- What Attracts Them? in Bellevue, WA
Termites are small but capable of doing a large amount of damage to wood structures – $5 billion worth annually in the United States. Termites are difficult to spot and can go unnoticed for years. Like all animals, termites have basic needs. Understanding what attracts them is a good way to eliminate and prevent them.
Wood and Cellulose
The most obvious thing that attracts termites is wood and plant-based materials. Termites rely on wood, wood products, and anything that is made out of cellulose for food. Leaves, paper, cardboard, fencing, lumber, firewood, trellises, and other structures are susceptible to damage from termites. Unless one uses pressure-treated lumber, cedar, redwood, or other materials that are resistant to termites, it’s important to promptly remove construction debris and keep wood at least 6 inches off of the ground to keep termites out.
Hear from Our Pest-Free Customers
Proudly Servicing Seattle and Surrounding Areas in the Pacific Northwest
At United Pest Solutions, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our customers have to say about working with us.
-
"Ben Is a Very Thorough & Effective Technician."Ben is a very thorough and effective technician.- Rhonda Z.
-
"Ben was very friendly and knowledgeable."He found the issue, identified the insect and treated it all very quickly and took care of the perimeter of my home.- Satisfied Customer
-
"I have been super happy with my service."Garret was our last technician, and even though we have had repetitive treatments, he treated our house like it was our first visit.- Stephanie F.
-
"Their pricing structure is clear and competitive with others."The techs are very knowledgeable and friendly. Serious about their work.- Stone Hobson
-
"Ben Was Very Friendly & Knowledgeable."He found the issue, identified the insect and treated it all very quickly and took care of the perimeter of my home.- Traci O.
-
"My Technician Garrett Is So Polite & Kind"My technician Garrett is so polite & kind. I always enjoy seeing him & he is very thorough.- Chris A.
-
"He Was Very Professional & So Helpful."He was very professional and so helpful!!! Everyone on the phone was very good to work with as well!- Erin N.
-
"Very satisfied with the service and glad we are with United Pest Solutions."Tanner was great - communicative, friendly, & knowledgeable.- V Riles
Darkness (and Light)
Termites can be detected by the dark mud tubes and tunnels they create. They create these to connect their underground nests to food sources or secondary colonies. The mud tubes may lead to the inside of a building or up high in a tree. Mud tubes protect the termites from predators. Swarmers, winged termites, are attracted to light in the spring when they emerge to mate and find a new place to colonize. Many people find out they have termites by the presence of swarmers or their fallen wings.
Warmth
During the cold, winter months, termites are usually inactive and typically live in the soil below the freezing line. When they have access to areas that have been heated, they can eat year round. To keep termites from entering homes or businesses, it helps to avoid using mulch around foundations. Termites are attracted to mulch and kind find cracks and holes as small as 3/10ths of an inch to entire buildings.
Termites aren’t easy to spot and can cause damage for years before being noticed. Learning about the things that attract termites and taking preventative measures can stop them in their tracks before they do extensive damage.
