Termites, though usually out of site to the human eye, cause billions of dollars in property damage in the United States every year. They work around the clock eating, which eventually can cause extensive damage to any wooden structure in their path.
Most people think of termites as a residential problem, however, commercial properties are vulnerable targets for termites. Businesses exist in many different structures with a variety of assets. They are warehouses with shipping pallets, offices with hardwood flooring, a break room with wood cabinets. The foundation of your business is home to the workplace of many employees and can face pretty serious problems as a result of termites.
Unfortunately, termite damage is often not identified until considerable damage is done. This is largely due to the nature of their habits. Different types of termites are attracted to different types of structures. Thinking about the environment of your business can be helpful in determining a potential risk for termites.
Subterranean termites enter structures through wood that is in direct contact with the soil. They proceed by building shelter tubes over or through cracks in the foundation. Cellulose materials in direct contact with soil such as tree, vines, or plumbing fixtures are all possible infestation avenues. These termites are found in many areas of Texas where soil is moist. However, they usually go unnoticed because their activity is hidden behind foundations like siding, decking, or wallboards.
Formosan termites have a larger colony size then the Subterranean termite, attacking a larger variety of wood at faster rates. While the upper Gulf Coast region is the most common place for these termites, property managers should still look for isolated infestations throughout Texas. It is believed that Formosan termites travel inland from materials like recycled railroad tires, shipping pallets, crates, and many other materials.
Drywood termites live above ground where they receive moisture from the wood of a structure. Some of the most popular areas for these termites to infest are protected joints, crevices in and around doors, window frames, eaves, attics, molding, and wood siding. Drywood termites can often re-infest the exact same place unless steps are made to prevent them.
Wood damage from termites is often far beneath the surface, so considerable damage is not usually apparent. A few sings of termite infestation is hollow sounding wood, wood that looks crushed or rotted, tunnels parallel with the wood grain, and even swollen floors and ceilings that appear to be suffering from water damage.
The most obvious sign of termite damage is seeing the pests themselves. During early summer and spring you might find them swarming. This is when they try to find partners to start new colonies. You might also find piles of wings shed from the swarm or remaining live termites. If you notice these things indoors or anywhere near the building there is a good chance you are at risk.
Whether you have annual inspections or noticed signs of termite damage around your property, Holder’s Pest Solutions can assist with termite prevention and help you identify what kind of termite you are dealing with. Our specialists are state certified termite inspectors and will thoroughly inspect your property for termite damage as well as provide immediate precautions if needed.
Holder’s Pest Solutions is also an authorized operator of the Sentricon Termite Colony Elimination System, an integrated termite baiting and monitoring system that can provide ongoing protection from termite infestations. This system gives you the power to both wipe out existing colonies and prevent new ones from coming in. Contact Holder’s Pest Solutions to protect your business, the people in it, and avoid costly repairs.
For more information about protecting your business from termites, download our free e-book “The Impact of Termites on Commercial Facilities.”
