Dampwood termites create tunnels and caverns within damp wood. If you observe wood with hollow tunnels that travel into the wood across the grain, you may have a dampwood termite infestation. Dampwood termites also seal up exposed external holes, so it may be difficult to see these tunnels. Dampwood termites produce droppings that are very small and pellet-shaped.
Dampwood termites are prevalent here in Orange County, specifically Pacific dampwood termites. They thrive in, as you may have guessed, damp wood environments. If you live in an exceptionally moist climate, your home may be susceptible to infiltration from dampwood termites. Be mindful of the furniture and infrastructure throughout your home and property, and consider installing a dehumidifier if your home resides in a high-moisture climate. If you notice an infiltration of dampwood termites (or any other species of termites) in or around your home, the time to act is now. You can call our termite control experts for fumigation and alternative termite treatments.
Let’s take a look at a deeper look at the ideal habitat of the dampwood termite, signs of the dampwood termite, and what you can do to exterminate dampwood termites.
The Ideal Habitat for the Dampwood Termites
Dampwood termites in Orange County flock towards damp decaying wood. They can thrive on wood alone and don’t need additional moisture. Since dampwood termites can survive on wood alone, they don’t build tunnels to gather food or water. In addition, they don’t need to contact the ground and can thrive within trees and wooden infrastructure. Monitor your home for wet wood (which may be caused by leaks in your infrastructure, wood that is in contact with the ground, etc.), and again, consider installing a dehumidifier if you live in a particularly wet climate.
How to Exterminate Dampwood Termites
If you find damp wood termites in your home, it’s best to act swiftly. Dampwood termites can destroy the wooden structures of your home, and they prefer wetter wood – wood that may be weakened already. Have an exterminator inspect your home and assess the best plan of action. If you have thorough damage, you may have to replace the wooden infrastructure in your home. Here at Hi-Tech Termite Control, we offer a variety of termite treatments, including localized microwave treatments, an alternative to fumigation. We’re proud to provide termite control solutions to folks throughout Orange County.