Subterranean termites live in underground colonies or in moist secluded areas above ground that can contain up to 2 million members. They build distinctive “mud tubes” to gain access to food sources and to protect themselves from open air. Cream-colored worker subterranean termites are 1/8 to 3/8 of an inch in length. Soldier subterranean termites are of a similar body length, but are distinguished by their powerful mandibles. Solider termites have cream-colored bodies and brown heads. Reproductive subterranean termites are approximately one inch long and are winged, swarming usually in the early springtime to spawn additional colonies.

Habits Of Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites live underground and build tunnels, referred to as mud tubes, to reach food sources. Termite colonies are organized into castes depending on tasks — workers, soldiers and reproductives. The characteristics of a subterranean termite are dependent on the termite’s role in the colony. Like other termite species, they feed on products containing cellulose. Subterranean termites swarm in the spring — groups of reproductive termites go off to start new colonies. Subterranean termites need contact with the soil to survive and live underground. They can build tunnels through cracks in concrete.

Termite Damage 

Subterranean termites are by far the most destructive species. They can collapse a building entirely, meaning possible financial ruin for a homeowner. The hard, saw-toothed jaws of termites work like shears and are able to bite off extremely small fragments of wood, one piece at a time.  For more information about termite damage, read our blog post: What Does Termite Damage Look Like?

Termite Prevention In PA

Avoid water accumulation near your home’s foundation. Divert water away with properly functioning downspouts, gutters and splash blocks. Reduce humidity in crawl spaces with proper ventilation. Never bury wood scraps or waste lumber in the yard. Most importantly, eliminate wood contact with the soil. Maintain a one-inch gap between the soil and wood portions of the building. Of course, if any such termite activity is detected at a structure or preventive monitoring is simply desired, our Witt specialists and technicians are readily equipped to assess any particular situation and provide/install a custom-tailored system aimed at eliminating existing colonies and monitoring for any future activity for ongoing protection.

Pittsburgh Termite Control

A highly skilled pest management professional should be enlisted at the first sign of termites to evaluate the problem activity in order to generate a solution that is suited to your situation and your particular needs. Our Pittsburgh pest control pros control termite infestations utilizing a variety of  treatment options including:

• Surveillance
• Baiting program
• Exclusion

Check out our Greater Pittsburgh termite treatment solutions for both homes and businesses.

Contact us today to learn more!