Four Common Myths About Phoenix, AZ Termites You May Still Believe

Among the pests that consume wood, termites might be the worst. Many Phoenix, AZ homes and businesses are no more because of them. Each year, Americans spend a total of $5 billion trying to fend off or recover from these destructive bugs. Since they typically creep under the soil and behind the walls, it’s hard to notice them before they do any damage. They are truly a nightmare to deal with.

Most people struggle to manage termite populations in Phoenix, and it doesn’t help that so many myths are circulated about the insects. Having a clear understanding of a bug species is essential to successfully preventing them.  Get the truth about termites now, and learn how Green Home Pest Control can help you defeat them for the long haul. 

Myths About Termites

Myth #1: Termites Exist To Destroy Only And Are Part Of The Ant Family

This might be hard to believe, but termites being decomposers actually contributes to the environment. When they envelop dead and decaying trees, organic matter, and plant material, it goes back into fresh soil. This enhances it and provides it with air. Subsequently, wooded areas will remain healthy.

Termite colonies often contain white or grayish-white workers that are 0.12 of an inch long. While they bear a striking resemblance to ants, they aren’t related to them at all. The other two sectors are soldiers and swarmers. Soldiers are distinguished by their rectangular heads and bold defensive jaws. Sometimes, they are yellow-brown. Swarmers definitely stand out, as they have wings and are ½ of an inch long. They come in brown, black, or yellow. Usually, they’re the only termites spotted because they fly from nests to procreate and go toward lights.

Myth #2: Termites Are Repelled by Mulch And Decaying Wood And Their Infestations Are Easy to Detect

Once more, termites reside in the soil and their activities replenish it. With that in mind, it’s unlikely that mulch will keep them off your land. As far as spoiled or rotten wood goes, it can often attract these pests. Moreover, it’s wise to replace or refurbish bad pieces of wood in the midst of your prevention efforts by:

• Repairing leaks and moisture faults immediately; especially if it’s dampening the wood 

• Making sure loose wood, like carpentry panels, aren’t on the soil 

• Patching up gaps in foundations and utility lines 

• Distancing greenery and woodpiles two feet or more from the property

Termites frequently aren’t detected until it’s too late. With the exception of swarmers, these insects will stay out of sight. Infestation signs may be more apparent such as:

• Droopy and discolored drywall 

• Loosening tiles and weakening floorboards

• Peeling paint that looks frothy or water damaged

• Hollow sounding walls

• Maze patterns, mud tubes, or needle-point openings in walls

• Stacks of fecal frass  

• Seeing swarmers or finding their discarded wings    

Myth #3: Termites Can Eat Through Concrete And You Only Need One Treatment

Yes, termites can crawl through cracks in concrete. However, they can’t chew through it. In regard to treatments, no avenue will permanently eliminate these insects. They can always return, particularly if they’ve been in a space before. It would behoove you to have consistent professional monitoring.

Myth#4: You Can Exterminate Termites Independently

Any results you observe from commercial termite products or “do it yourself” remedies will be temporary. That is if they work to any extent. Many won’t reach past the surface of an infestation and some are toxic. The solutions at Green Home Pest Control are more thorough and safe. Our expert technicians will use liquid applications or Trelona® ATBS Advance® Termite Baiting Systems to eradicate colonies and develop a protective barrier. New construction treatments, follow-up visits, and guarantees are available. Call us today at Green Home Pest Control for a free estimate!