Termite Control in Phoenix. Text|Call: (480) 316-5612

The Nitty-gritty on Termites 

Termite Species in the Sonora Desert

In the Greater Phoenix area, Subterranean Termites are the most common species you’ll encounter. These termites are small but mighty, and they can cause extensive damage to homes if left untreated. Here’s what you need to know about them:

• Subterranean Termites: These termites live in large underground colonies and build mud tubes to access above-ground wood sources, including homes.

Behavior and Habitat

Termites are notorious for silently destroying the wooden structures of homes. They live in colonies and work around the clock, chewing through wood, cellulose, and other materials. Here’s where you might find them:

• Foundation, Wooden Beams and Flooring: Termites are usually found near your home’s foundation, as they enter through the soil and work their way up.
  
  
• Mud Tubes: Subterranean termites build mud tubes to protect themselves from exposure as they move between their colony and food sources (your house, garage, shed...).

Why Termites Are a Problem

• Structural Damage: Termites chew through wood, weakening the structural integrity of your home. Over time, they can cause serious damage to support beams, flooring, and other wooden structures.
  
  
• Difficult to Detect: Termites often go unnoticed until the damage is already significant, as they typically work from the inside out.
  
  
• Costly Repairs: The longer a termite infestation goes untreated, the more expensive the repairs will be. In fact, termites cause more damage to homes each year than fires or floods!

What to Look Out For

To spot termites before they cause major damage, be on the lookout for these signs:

1. Mud Tubes: Termites build mud tubes as highways from the soil to your home. You’ll often find these around the foundation or exterior walls.
   
   
2. Hollow-Sounding Wood: If wooden beams or floors sound hollow when tapped, termites may have eaten through them from the inside.
   
   
3. Swarms of Winged Termites: Termite swarms are most common in the spring after rain, as they look to establish new colonies.
   
   
4. Discarded Wings: After swarming, termites shed their wings, leaving behind small piles near windowsills, doorways, or other entry points.
   
   
5. Frass (Termite Droppings): Drywood termites leave behind wood-colored droppings, which resemble sawdust or coffee grounds.

Season of Peak Activity

Termite activity in Phoenix is most prevalent during the spring and summer months (March to August), particularly after rainfall. However, termites can be active year-round, given Phoenix’s relatively warm climate.

Most Prevalent Areas in Greater Phoenix

Termites can be found all across Phoenix, but they are especially common in areas with:

• Older Homes: Homes built decades ago or with untreated wood are more likely to experience termite infestations.
  
  
• New Construction Sites: Even though new homes are treated for termites, the disruption of soil during construction can stir up termites. Areas like North Phoenix, where new developments are common, often see termite activity.

Prevention and Exclusion Tips

Preventing termites can save you thousands of dollars in potential repairs. Here’s what you can do:

1. Keep Soil and Wood Separate: Avoid direct contact between soil and wooden parts of your home. Use concrete or metal barriers where possible.
   
   
2. Eliminate Moisture: Termites are attracted to moisture. Fix leaky pipes, ensure proper drainage, and keep your home’s foundation dry.
   
   
3. Remove Wood Debris: Keep woodpiles, tree stumps, and other wooden debris away from your home, as these attract termites.
   
   
4. Regular Inspections: Have your home inspected annually by a professional to catch termite activity early.

Professional Treatment Options

TRAIN STATION PEST ELIMINATION offers comprehensive termite control services:

• Termite Baiting Systems: We place bait stations around your home that termites take back to their colony, eliminating it from within.
  
  
• Soil Treatments: A protective barrier is applied around your home to prevent termites from entering through the soil.
  
  
• Wood Treatments: We apply a special treatment to the wood in your home to protect it from termite damage.

Why Choose TRAIN STATION PEST ELIMINATION?

We specialize in termite detection and elimination. Whether you’re dealing with an active infestation or need preventative treatment, we’ve got the tools and expertise to protect your home from these destructive pests.

Termite FAQs

Q. How often should I get my home inspected for termites?
A. It’s recommended to have a professional inspection once a year, especially if you’ve had a termite problem in the past.

Q. Is termite damage covered by homeowner’s insurance?
A. Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover termite damage, making prevention and early detection even more important.