Termite Control – The Home Depot

How to Identify Termites

Termites and flying ants possess a very similar appearance, enough so that, without closer inspection, you may mistake one for the other. In order to effectively treat your pests, you must properly identify which insect is responsible for your infestation.

Ants

Thorax and constricted abdomen are clearly defined

Front pair of wings is larger than rear pair and only a little larger than the body

Distinct elbow-shaped antennae feature an elongated first segment

Termites

Ribbed abdomen is one continuous, thick piece with no visible waist

Two pairs of vein-filled wings are equal in length and twice the length of the body

Antennae are straight and somewhat short, and they have no eyes

In addition to identifying termites by sight, there are a number of signs that indicate their presence. Termites often build mud tubes, which are thin mud structures as small as -inch diameter that connect the ground to your house, garage or other wooden structure.

Inspect wood structures closely for signs of decay by gently tapping on them. If a solid beam sounds hollow, chances are you have termite trouble. Discarded wings are a physical sign that termites may be in the house, as reproductive termites shed their wings once they find a new place to set up a colony.

While you should leave termite removal to the professionals, knowing the methods they will use can help you in understanding the best ways to treat the problem and help prevent it from recurring.

One popular termite-removal method involves treating the soil around your house with an insecticide, such as imidacloprid or fipronil. Wood can also be treated directly if termites are inside.

Termite baits are strategically placed around your yard to lure termites in. Once there, the termites are covered with a slow-acting insecticide or insect growth regulator. They then return to the colony and poison the other termites.

Taking steps to prevent termites can save you a great deal of money. Moisture is an absolute necessity for termite colonies to survive and thrive, so eliminating damp areas around your house is essential to preventing termites.

For resources on DIY pest control, visit our other insect elimination guides: How to Get Rid of Ants, How to Get Rid of Fleas and How to Get Rid of Gnats.

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Termite Control - The Home Depot