Termites are Back – and They’ve Brought Their Friends

Did you know that termites aren’t the only insects that can damage wood? In Florida, there are many species of insects that could cause damage to the wooden structure of your home. Termite removal specialists often encounter these wood-damaging insects.

Termites

Termites are the most well-known of the wood-damaging insects. There are a few different types of termites found in Florida. Subterranean termites are a particularly destructive type, and they live in underground colonies. Drywood and dampwood termites are also found in the state, and they feed on dry wood and damp wood, respectively.

Termites are sometimes called “silent destroyers” because of their ability to stay out of sight while they’re causing damage. On the surface, the infested wood can look fine, but below the surface, the wood could be severely compromised by termite feeding. To detect termite infestations, homeowners should schedule regular termite inspections.

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are large, winged ants that make their nests in wood, but unlike termites, they don’t eat the wood. They just tunnel through it as they grow their nests. Still, this can cause significant damage to wooden structures.

These ants are drawn to wet, deteriorating wood. To prevent carpenter ant infestations, homeowners should replace any wet or rotting wood. If an infestation is already present, removing the damaged wood may be the only treatment that’s required.

Powderpost Beetles

The larval form of these beetles live in dry, seasoned wood, like the kind used for beams, subflooring, and plywood. They can even live in hardwood furniture and floors. They eat tunnels in the wood and can cause serious damage. Since the tunnels are entirely below the surface of the wood, the damage can remain undetected until the wood falls apart.

Beetles are usually introduced to houses through infested wood. If you’re doing renovations in your home, inspect all the wood before you install it. Once an infestation develops, pest control professionals can use treatments like surface insecticides to control the beetles.

Wood Borers

Wood borers are another annoying pest that can damage wood. These bugs lay their eggs in the crevices of logs. When the eggs hatch, the larvae bore through the wood. The adult beetles then emerge through holes in the wood. Fortunately, the damage occurs slowly.

The most effective way to get rid of wood borers is fumigation, a process that can only be performed by licensed pest control professionals. If the infestation is localized, replacing the damaged wood may also be an option.

Termites aren’t the only insects that can damage the wood in your home. If you’re concerned that wood-damaging insects may be in your home, call the termite removal experts at Apex to schedule an inspection.