FAQs
How can I recognize a termite infestation?
Depending on what part of California you’re from, termite swarms may be visible as early as spring and continue through November. Signs of termite infestation include soft wood in areas around the home, mud tubes on the exterior of your home (often near the foundation), and darkening or blistering of wood structures. Also, termites can sometimes give themselves away by leaving wings or piles of waste that look like sawdust on windows and floors! If you suspect termite activity or would like to receive one of our FREE inspections then contact Advantage Termite today!
How much damage can termites cause to my property?
Termites eat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, meaning damage to the wood in and around your structure can happen very quickly. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) estimates that termites cause $5 billion in property damage annually. In fact, termites damage more homes than fires, floods, and tornadoes every year combined! Undetected and untreated, termites can severely damage and, in time, destroy a home. The good news is that termites can be controlled with the help of a trained Advantage Termite professional!
How can I recognize a termite?
Termite workers are pale, soft-bodied insects about ¼-inch or less in length. They appear to have a head and body because their thorax is broadly joined to their abdomen. Their antennae are straight, just like a string of beads! Termites are mistakenly called white ants but are not ant-like in appearance. Ants in comparison to termites have a narrow or pinched “waist,” and their antennae are "elbowed”.
Winged termites (swarmers) have pigmented bodies with broad waists and two pairs of wings that are equal in size and shape. The swarmers quickly shed their wings after a brief flight. Winged ants, on the other hand, have pinched waists and two pairs of wings that differ in size and shape.
I recently noticed a small mud tunnel around my home. I knocked it off, but after a few days, the mud tunnel was back. Should I be concerned about termites?
In short, yes. Such mud tunnels are an indication of subterranean termite activity. Because the tube was rebuilt after being broken, the termites are currently an active infestation. Please contact Advantage Termite today by calling 1(800) 640-0473 to schedule a FREE termite inspection and to determine your control options!
What is the difference between drywood and subterranean termites?
Drywood termites, found more commonly in our coastal areas around California, do not have soil contact but can live inside walls or other wooden building materials. Subterranean termites on the other hand return to the soil to live and reproduce.
What should I expect from an inspection?
Our licensed Advantage Termite professionals will conduct a careful inspection to determine the presence or absence of a termite infestation. After meeting you at the door, our trained professional will inspect and probe the exterior of your property for any termite activity. After recording his findings, your inspector will then check any remaining attics, garages, or crawl spaces for any further activity. Upon completion of your free inspection, our licensed inspector will report his findings to you and discuss any further termite control options.
