Subterranean Termites in Virginia Beach

Identifying Termites in Your Southeast Virginia Home

Subterranean termites are the most common type of termite in Virginia. They are also the most destructive. Subterranean termites live in colonies, deep underground in mud tunnels. 

How Do I Know If I Have Subterranean Termites?

If you have subterranean termites, you may not know it. These termites live in the soil and only come into your home when they need to find food. If you have subterranean termites, you will likely notice damage to your home, but you may not know that the damage is caused by termites.

Signs of subterranean termite infestations include:

• Warped wood
• Termite droppings
• Tiny mud tunnels in wood
• Discarded wings

Subterranean termites cause damage to your home by hollowing out wood. This damage can occur in wood that is in contact with the soil, including wood siding, floors, and support beams. The damage may not be visible to the naked eye, but can cause your home to become structurally unsound. The wood may also sound hollow when tapped. The earlier termites are caught, the less damage they will cause to your home.

How Do I Treat Subterranean Termites?

One of the most important things you can do to protect your home from subterranean termites is to have a professional inspection performed. A trained pest control technician will perform a thorough inspection of your home to locate the source of the infestation and develop a customized treatment plan and warranty to eradicate the termites and prevent future infestations.

Contact Accel Pest & Termite Control for a free inspection and estimate for termite control.

What Are Some Other Ways to Prevent Subterranean Termites?

While termites are nearly impossible to completely prevent, there are several things you can do to help prevent termites from invading your home.

Maintain proper drainage: Ensure that your property has adequate drainage to prevent water accumulation near the foundation. This helps reduce moisture levels, which are attractive to termites.

Keep firewood & lumber away: Store firewood, lumber, and other cellulose materials at least 20 feet away from the house and raised off the ground. This prevents termites from easily accessing these food sources.

Use termite-resistant materials: When building or renovating, consider using termite-resistant materials such as treated wood, concrete, or steel.

Seal entry points: Regularly inspect your home for cracks, gaps, or openings in the foundation, walls, and roof. Seal these entry points to prevent termites from gaining access.

Conduct regular inspections: Schedule professional termite inspections on a regular basis to detect early signs of termite activity and take appropriate measures promptly.

Remove termite attractants: Avoid storing cardboard boxes, paper products, and other cellulose-rich materials in damp or dark areas, as these can attract termites.

Regular treatments: Consider consulting with a professional pest control service for regular termite inspections and to discuss preventive treatment options such as soil treatments or termite bait systems.

Remember, preventing subterranean termites is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of your home. By implementing these prevention strategies and staying vigilant, you can reduce the risk of termite infestations and protect your property.

Contact Accel Pest & Termite Control for termite control in Virginia Beach.