The most common termites in North Central Washington are Subterranean Termites. Subterranean termites cause more structural damage and economic loss in North America than any other pest. They feed on cellulose matter, making our homes a prime target. They can very quickly cause considerable structural damage to a home. One local home inspector in Wenatchee has estimated that he finds subterranean termite activity in approximately 10% of the homes he inspects.

As their name suggests Subterranean Termites live in nests five to ten feet underground. A nest can contain as many as two million members! From these nests they build tunnels to their food sources. Once above ground, these tunnels (called “mud tubes”) protect the termites from the air. They will feed on any kind of cellulose material including, wood, cardboard and paper. During the warmer months a mature colony sends out winged reproductive that are looking for a new nesting location.

Signs of a termite infestation include:

• Mud tubes running up a foundation or wall.

• Winged reproductive swarmers in or around your home.

• Termite damaged wood or cardboard around the home.

Due to the fact that their nests are deep underground, effective treatment of a termite infestation almost always requires the help of a professional pest control expert.