In Canada, the most common types of termites that bug people include the eastern subterranean termite (Reticulitermes), the western subterranean termite (Reticulitermes Hesperus), and the Pacific termite (Zootermopsis).
These critters hang out in different parts of Canada. Subterranean termites are everywhere, while dampwood termites prefer the west coast. The underground ones are the real troublemakers for homes, as they munch on dry wood. Dampwood termites, on the other hand, like moist and decaying wood, which can signal a moisture issue in your house.
How Can You Spot Termites?
Termites live in groups with different jobs: workers, soldiers, and reproductives. Each type looks a bit different. Generally, subterranean termites have smaller workers (about 6 mm), while dampwood termites have bigger ones (around 20 mm). Soldiers have big jaws, and reproductives have two sets of wings that look alike. They’re all made up of three parts: a head with antennas, a middle part, and an end part. They come in shades from whitish-brown to almost black.
What’s The Difference Between Termites and Ants?
Termites and ants could be twins, but there are some clues to tell them apart. Check their antennas, waistlines, and wings:
- Termites have straight antennas; ants’ antennas bend.
- Termites’ waists are broad and match the rest of their bodies; ants’ waists are super skinny.
- Termite wings are all the same size; ants have big front wings and smaller back ones.
- Color-wise, termites are black, flying ants are reddish-brown, and carpenter ants are big and black.
How Can You Tell If You’ve Got Termites?
Termites might be sneaky, but they always leave a trace. Look out for:
- Wood that looks damaged or hollow.
- Piles of discarded wings from swarmers.
- Mud tubes, especially in basements or garages, are made by subterranean termites.
- Tiny droppings, called frass, near infested wood.
Where Do Termites Hang Out In Your House?
These little bugs can wreak havoc in all sorts of places:
- Cracks around your roof vents, siding, and windows.
- Leaky plumbing that creates moisture.
- Foam insulation that termites can zip through.
- Decks, fences, and firewood near the ground.
- Moist areas like air conditioner condensation and crawl spaces.
- Gutters and downspouts that keep moisture close.
- Anywhere wood touches the ground, like wood chips or mulch.
How Do You Stop Termites From Moving In?
To keep your home termite-free, make it less cosy for them:
- Fix leaky pipes and make sure water drains away from your house.
- Trim shrubs and trees so they’re not touching your home.
- Store wood and firewood far from your house in a dry spot.
What If You’ve Got Termites?
If you suspect termites are making themselves at home, call in the experts. Pest control pros can apply special chemicals safely to get rid of them.
Where Do Termites Live, And What Do They Eat?
Termites prefer conditions with both heat and moisture; that is why they prefer tropical environments. Subterranean termites live below the frost line but still manage to gain entry to heated structures through subterranean tunnels in Canada, sneaking under door jambs. Plus they don’t discriminate when it comes to eating materials made of wood, paper, or cardboard!
How Long Do Termites Stick Around?
Termites start as swarmers looking for love. Once they’ve found it, they settle down, shed their wings, and become kings and queens of their colonies. Worker and soldier termites live up to two years, but queens can reign for a decade if conditions are just right.
Why Worry About Termites?
Sure, termites help nature out, but they’re no friend to your home. They can chomp through wood like it’s nothing, causing major damage. It’s a multi-billion-dollar problem in North America every year.
How Much Does Termite Trouble Cost?
Termite damage can be pricey to fix, depending on how bad it is. It’s not a problem you can DIY—licensed pest control pros are the way to go. They know how to deal with these tiny terrors safely and effectively.
Contact Us For Termites Removal Services
Get in touch with pest removal Ottawa for effective termite removal services. Don’t let termites wreak havoc on your property. Our team is here to help you reclaim your home from these destructive pests. Contact us today for a termite-free environment.
Area We Serve
Searching for dependable pest management solutions in Ottawa and nearby regions? Your search ends here with Get ‘Em Out Wildlife Control! Our top-notch pest control services guarantee a pest-free atmosphere, enabling you to relish hassle-free living in Brockville, Russell, Arnprior, Kingston, Embrun, Carleton, Kanata, Kemptville, Nepean, Orleans, Stittsville, Barrhaven, Cornwall, Greely, Glebe, and beyond. Feel free to reach out for more details today!
