Have you noticed small piles of dirt around your home or office? Or, have you seen what looks like small wings lying on the ground? If you have, there’s a good chance you have a termite problem.

Texas is home to more than its fair share of these destructive little critters. They can cause serious damage to your property, and they’re not always easy to get rid of.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about termites in Texas. We’ll discuss the types of termites you might encounter, their habits and behaviors, and how to get rid of them if they’ve already infested your home.

What Are Termites?

Termites are small, winged insects that feed on wood and live in colonies. They are essential in breaking down dead trees and other plant matter in their natural habitat. However, when they invade homes and other buildings, they can cause severe damage.

These pests are a significant problem for homeowners because they can cause extensive damage to wood structures. Termites feed on cellulose, which is found in wood. This means that termites can quickly eat through the supports of a home, causing it to collapse.

What Are The Types of Termites in Texas?

There are several different types of termites found in Texas, including drywood termites, dampwood termites, and subterranean termites. While each type is slightly different, all share a common goal: finding food (wood) and establishing a termite colony.

1. Desert Dampwood Termite

As its name suggests, this type of termite is commonly found in arid regions. Desert dampwood termites are larger than other types and can range from light brown to almost black. Unlike different types of termites, they do not live in colonies underground. Instead, they build their nests in dead or dying trees.

The termites generally live underground, and their favorite food sources are tree roots, door frames, and fence posts. In addition to causing damage to these wooden structures, they can also girdle and kill living trees by feeding on their roots.

They are one of the most destructive types of termites in the world. These pests feed on wood, paper, and cardboard and can quickly cause structural damage. If you suspect you have a problem with these pests, it is essential to call a professional exterminator as soon as possible.

2. Western Drywood Termite

These termites are smaller in size than desert dampwood termites and are typically a light brown color. Western drywood termites live in colonies underground and prefer to build their nests in wood that is already dry.

With a colony of around 3,000 individuals, you will likely find the reproductive, soldier, and pseudergate classes. Reproductive termites have dark brown bodies and smoky-black wings that are half an inch long. Soldier termites are easy to spot because of their large heads and two prominent mouthparts.

Note that drywood termites don’t have a reproductively sterile termite in their colonies since they lack a “true worker termites” class. Instead, they have “pseudergates” who work and might molt into soldiers eventually.

The diet of the termite revolves around wood that has not yet decayed. This means they are often found outside their geographical areas, as infested wooden objects can carry them.

3. Subterranean Termite

Subterranean termites are the most common type of termite found in Texas. They are small in size and range from light brown to almost black. Unlike other types of termites, they live in colonies underground and build their nests in the soil.

They are known for causing extensive damage to homes and other structures made of wood. With scissor-like jaws, subterranean termites can eat wood all day long. They will consume any wood or cellulose-based material. These pests are particularly destructive because they only feed on the softwood portion of wood, leaving the hardwood behind.

As a result, damaged wood from subterranean termites can be identified by the appearance of layers and the honeycomb pattern left behind. Additionally, these termites feed “with the grain” rather than across it.

What Do Termites Look Like in Texas?

Termites in Texas generally fall into categories like: drywood termites and subterranean termites. Drywood termites are most commonly found in the western and southern parts of the state, while subterranean termites are more prevalent in the eastern and northern regions.

Drywood termites are small insects that range in color from light brown to dark brown. They have long, slender bodies and wings that are twice as long as their bodies. Subterranean termites are also small insects but are typically darker in color than drywood termites. Their wings are shorter than their bodies, and they have a thicker waist.

Both drywood termites and subterranean termites feed on wood. However, drywood termites typically live in dry wood, while subterranean termites live in dry and moist wood.

Termites can cause significant damage to homes and other structures made of wood. If you think you may have termites, it is crucial to contact a pest control professional to have them inspected and treated as soon as possible.

Also Read: Cockroaches in Texas

Are Termites Common in Texas?

While termites may be common in Texas, that doesn’t mean they are easy to deal with. There are several different species of termites that call the state home. If you suspect that you have a problem with termites on your property, it is crucial to contact a professional for help. A pest termite control expert can confirm whether or not you have termites and recommend the best course of action for getting rid of them.

Also Read: Fleas in Texas

How Do You Get Rid Of Termites In Texas?

You need to do a few things to get rid of termites in Texas.

1. Identify The Problem

It can be done by looking for tell-tale damage signs, such as soft or spongy wood, sawdust, or mud tubes. Once you have identified the problem, you need to find the source of the infestation and treat it accordingly.

2. Bait Systems

Bait systems attract termites to a food source, which is then laced with a poisonous substance. The termites will take the bait back to their nest, feeding it to the rest of the colony. This will eventually kill off the entire colony.

3. Chemical Treatment

Chemical treatment involves using a pesticide to kill the termites. This is usually done by injecting the pesticide into the ground around the affected area. Once the termites come into contact with the pesticide, they will die.

4. New Construction Pre-Treatments

If you have a new home built, you can have the foundation treated with a pesticide to prevent termites from ever infesting your home. This is called pre-treatment, and it is very effective in keeping termites away.

5. Have A Professional Inspect Your Home

If you are unsure how to get rid of termites in Texas, or if you want to ensure that your home is free of them, you can always contact a professional pest control company like Texas Bug Control. We can inspect your home and provide you with the best course of action to take.

What Months Do Termites Come Out In Texas?

The activity of termites generally picks up during warmer weather conditions. After rainfall on days where the temperature is warm, termites have been known to swarm. Depending on the species, swarming can occur any time from February to fall. There have even been instances of termites swarming during winter months, but only in large buildings that are heated, such as barns.

Suppose you see signs of termites in or around your property. In that case, it’s essential to contact a pest control professional immediately to assess the situation and determine the best course of treatment. Left untreated, termites can cause severe damage to your home or building.

Also Read: Types of Rats in Texas

FAQs

Should I Worry If I See A Termite?

If you see a termite, it is crucial to determine whether it is part of a colony that could pose a risk to your home. If the termite is alone, it may have simply wandered into your home in search of food and does not pose a threat. However, if you see several termites or evidence of a nest, it is important to take steps to eliminate the infestation as soon as possible. A professional exterminator can help you get rid of termites and prevent them from returning in the future.

What Kills Termites Instantly?

There are a number of products on the market that claim to kill termites instantly. However, most of these products are ineffective and can even harm your home. If you suspect a termite infestation, it is essential to call a professional exterminator as soon as possible.

Will Termites Go Away On Their Own?

Termites will not go away on their own and will continue to pose a risk to your home as long as they are present. You need to take steps to eliminate the infestation and prevent them from returning in the future. A professional exterminator can help you get rid of termites and prevent them from returning in the future.

What Time Of Day Are Termites Most Active?

Termites are most active during the day when the temperature is warm. However, they can also be active at night if the temperature is high enough. They are typically most active during the spring and summer months.

Does Vinegar Get Rid Of Termites?

No, vinegar will not get rid of termites. All DIY methods for killing or repelling termites are mostly ineffective.

The only way to get rid of termites is to have a professional treatment done. This can be in the form of liquid chemicals injected into the soil around your home or installing a bait system. Don’t waste your time and money on home remedies like vinegar. Get rid of termites for good with professional treatment.

How Fast Can Termites Destroy A House?

While there is no definitive answer, it is generally agreed that termites can quickly destroy a house. If left untreated, termites can cause extensive damage to the wood in your home and potentially make it structurally unsound.

While there is no way to know for sure how fast termites can destroy a house, it is important to be aware of the potential damage they can cause and to have your home regularly inspected for signs of infestation.

What Happens If Termites Go Untreated?

If termites go untreated, they can cause extensive damage to your home. Termites can destroy your home’s structural integrity, leading to costly repairs. If you suspect that you have termites, it is important to contact a pest control professional to get rid of them before they cause major damage.

Do Moth Balls Keep Termites Away?

Moth balls are not an effective way to keep termites away. In fact, they may actually be used by them to stay away from predators. Moth balls are made of naphthalene, which is a substance that can be toxic to humans and animals. Naphthalene is also the main ingredient in many insecticides, so it’s not surprising that it would be attractive to insects. But it’s not effective in the case of termites.

Do Termites Go Through Concrete?

No, termites cannot go through concrete. However, they can travel through small cracks and crevices in concrete, so it’s important to have a professional inspect your home for potential entry points.

Conclusion

Termites are a problem in Texas, and there’s no doubt about that. Even though termites are small, they can cause a lot of damage to your property if left unchecked.

But with a little bit of knowledge and the right precautions, you can prevent them from causing serious damage to your home. This guide has provided you with everything you need to know about termites in Texas, so arm yourself with this information and keep your home safe from these destructive pests.