Cryptotermes Drywood termites

Sometimes called “powderpost” termites or “furniture” termites, due to the fact that they commonly attack timber and furniture, Cryptotermes drywood termites are typically found in the humid coastal areas; of the southern United States.

This species of termites prefers to infest the structural timbers of buildings, furniture (or other dry timbers); that have less than 12 percent timber moisture content. Interestingly, the average moisture content of seasoned timbers commonly used in the United States is 8-12 percent.

Inside the timber that they infest, Cryptotermes Drywood termites construct elaborate chambers or galleries, which are connected by endless tunnels. Because this termite can obtain its required moisture intake, from the timber it infests, their nest or colony requires no contact with the ground. As such, it is common for an exterminator to discover multiple Cryptotermes Drywood termites colonies, causing pest control problems; in a single building.

Read more about the Cryptotermes drywood termite.

Eastern Subterranean Termite

The Eastern subterranean termite is highly destructive to Douglas Fir, and other common building lumbers, frequently used in the construction of homes and furniture; in much of the United States. Home owners and tenants should be aware that Eastern subterranean termites, will quickly consume the internal sections of their home's structural timbers; causing enormous damage.

Eastern subterranean termites will invade a wide area in large numbers, in search of a mate from another nest of termites; to begin a new colony. The Eastern subterranean termite nest is usually located in the ground, below the frost line, but above the water table. However, in areas of the home where moisture collects regularly, the Eastern subterranean termite can develop a subsidiary colony nest; which will not require any contact with the ground.

Very elusive, Eastern subterranean termites prefer to enter a building through areas that are difficult for an exterminator to inspect, like expansion joints, cracks in concrete flooring; and areas that are less than 1/16 of inch wide.

Read more about Eastern subterranean termites.

Formosan Termites

The Formosan subterranean termite is an invasive species of termite. Often nicknamed the "super-termite", a colony of these termites can consume almost a pound (13oz) of wood a day, and severely damage a home or structure; in as little as three months.

Formosan termite infestations have been reported in eleven U.S. states, including: Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. For the moment, the Formosan termite invasion is likely to be restricted to the southern United States, because their eggs will not hatch; in environments below 68 °F.

Because of the enormous size of Formosan termite colonies, and their ability to consume wood at a rapid rate, these pests are responsible for causing devastation and damage to homes, buildings and property. In most instances, homeowners require the help of an exterminator, or other such pest control professional, to successfully eliminate this destructive pest.

Read more about the Formosan Termite.

Termites

Termites, sometimes called White ants (although not closely related to true ants), are typically catagorized into three types; dependant upon location and biological habits:

1. Subterranean termites
2. Dry Wood termites
3. Damp Wood termites

Because some members of the termite species (approximately 10 percent) are known to cause damage to structures and property, termites often become the target of concerned homeowners, exterminating experts and local pest control professionals.

Learn more about termites.