March

TERMITES

          Many people believe that termites live only in the forest where wooded snacks are abundant, unfortunately termites are alive and well right here in the desert southwest. The desert subterranean termites which infest the lower elevations of the Southwest only surface to feed and establish new colonies.  They are less dependent on moisture and prefer dry, sound wood. Colonies live underground and usually contain about 300,000 swarmers and soldiers, they are pale yellowish brown and are 3/8” long including the ones that have wings and will have a territory of up to an acre. The small size of Desert subterranean termites and their ability to forage under dry conditions allows them to occupy a niche not exploited by other subterranean termite species. They require only 1/32” gap in cracked concrete flooring or mortar joints in brick walls to gain access to the walls, roofing and other structural timbers in a house. They often build their mud-shelter tubes as free standing tubes that “drop down” from rafters, ceilings, form up foundation walls and sub-floor areas under buildings.
           
            Because of the destructive nature of termites chemicals have been developed to repel or kill them. One such chemical, Termidor, has been proven in field tests to effectively kill termites from building sites and also from existing homes. After the termites come in contact with the chemical it is carried back to the nest, therby eliminating the colony. It has been found to be most effective when the surrounding properties use it too. The weaker termite solutions sold over the counter act mainly as a barrier that discourage termites from crossing over. These do not kill the colony and begins to dissipate in 3 years. One of the most common causes of an infestation, even when the property is treated, is over-irrigation which dilutes the chemicals and makes them less effective. Digging next to the structure or having repairs done under the concrete slab area also poses a risk when not re-treated. Termite damage usually occurs over a period of time and if the infestation is caught in the early stages it can eliminate costly repairs. When building a new house it is recommended to use the Termidor rather than weaker repellants.

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* The information contained in this “tips” section is to be used as a general guide only. When making decisions about your project a professional should be consulted using the specific information that is unique to your project.