by Scott Lunn

Termite identification does not only refer to the ability to name the various members of a termite colony. As a homeowner who wants to prevent termites from infesting your home, then you have to know the basics regarding termites.

Termite Information

The most common termite, and the ones you are most likely to find are the worker termites. Worker termites have a creamy white color and are responsible in gathering food for the colony.

Termites stay away from the light as well as open air. Rather they dig out into the soil and work their way up the wooden sections of a house by means of the mud tunnels they build. This explains why the extent of the destruction to properties remain undetermined until enough damage has been made. For some, they will only find out the existence of termites when the damaged areas begin to break, revealing worker termites. To be able to prevent considerable damage, it is best to search for signs that there is termite presence within your property.

Termite Swarmers

Termite swarmers are young king and queen termites. They are responsible for establishing new colonies. They tend to swarm on damp days in the spring and fall. Look for dark colored and winged insects flying around. Look closer if these insects have straight bodies and if they have four wings of equal length. If they do, then they are either coming or leaving your place. Either way, there are probably termites lurking somewhere.

Through the Mud Tunnels

Mud tubes or tunnels running over a foundation is a definite sign of the presence of termites. As we already know, worker termites avoid open areas, so they travel from the colony to their food source by means of mud tunnels. When you see what appears to be dried mud rising from the earth and sticking on foundations or walls you should start looking for more termites.

Termite Damage Effects

If termites go undetected for a long time before you detect them, there is a big probability that the wooden portions of your house have already been severely damaged. This damage will eventual result in the collapse of wooden surfaces. When you find termites, take immediate action to eliminate them.

Termite Friendly Conditions

There are certain conditions that provide a favorable environment for termites. These conditions just encourage termites to infest your home. Any places where the wood portion of your house are in contact with the ground is a serious threat. Ground termites are partial to moist soil, and if it is near wood, then their foraging just becomes easier. Also check for any leaky pipes under and around your house. As well as any cracks in the foundation, which might invite the termites in.

About the Author:
Do you wonder, what does a termite look like? As a homeowner You should know what the different signs of termite infestation are.