Dampwood termites typically feed on moist or decaying wood. Unlike other types of termites, such as subterranean termites, they do not require contact with soil to survive. Therefore, it has a smaller colony size compared to other termites. You will typically find them in coastal and humid regions.
Dampwood termites can be identified by their larger size compared to other termite species, ranging from 1.25cm to 1.6cm in length. They are creamy white to brownish in colour. In addition, they have a long, narrow, and oval body shape with six legs.
The soldiers of this species have flattened brown heads with long, dark mandibles, while the alates (flying termites) have dark brown colouration and four pairs of wings that are equal in length. Nymphs are characterised by their cream-coloured bodies with spotted patterns on the abdomen.
Termites go through different stages of life. There are three stages in their life cycle: egg, nymph, and adult. The first two stages take about a month, and the adult stage can last a few years.
When two winged termites, also called alates, start a new colony, they build a cosy chamber inside a good piece of wood and lay eggs. Most termite colonies are tiny, but if the conditions are right, they can quickly grow bigger and bigger.
Dampwood termites are picky about where they live. Once they find the right spot, they can build their home using all kinds of wood, like fallen branches, logs, stumps, and even wood that is buried beneath the soil.
These termites can cause significant problems by eating away at wood, making it unsafe for people to live or work in infested buildings. That’s why it’s essential to watch out for any signs of their activity and take quick action if you see any. By doing that, you can stop them from doing more damage.
Termites like to eat cellulose, which is found in plants. But dampwood termites also like to eat wet and rotting wood and other things made of cellulose.
When they can’t find enough food, they might attack the wooden furniture in homes or buildings. Also, they are known to eat other termites, especially ones that are injured or weak.
Dampwood termites are not as destructive as drywood termites but can cause still cause expensive problems in your home. They like to eat the support beams, which can weaken the structure of your building over time.
If you don’t address the problem, it could lead to expensive repairs. However, since these termites are good at hiding, you might not notice them until they have caused significant damage. That’s why it’s important to look for signs of termites and act as soon as possible.
If you suspect that you have dampwood termites in your home, there are some signs you can look for. You might see discarded wings with the same shape, except for the size difference between pairs.
Another indicator is small piles of wood pellets or faecal matter that match the colour of the wood they have been eating. These signs can help you identify an infestation early on.
If you do see any of these signs, it’s essential to call a professional pest control exterminator immediately to prevent further damage to your home.
Protecting your property from dampwood termites is essential to prevent damage to wood structures and furniture. At Tom’s Pest Control Adelaide, we have a team of highly experienced professionals who understand the risks associated with dampwood termites.
We use various methods for dampwood termite control, including soil treatments with termiticides, exclusion techniques like caulking or sealing entry points, and other preventative measures. However, if the infestation is severe, fumigation may be necessary.
If you suspect an infestation, it is crucial to contact our professionals immediately. We will assess the situation and recommend treatments tailored to your specific needs. With the right approach, these pests can be controlled and prevented from causing further destruction. Trust us to protect your property from these harmful pests.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding our dampwood termite control services, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts is always ready to assist you and provide the necessary information.
Treating a dampwood termite infestation yourself is not recommended, as locating, and eliminating the entire colony can be challenging. Instead, it’s best to contact a professional pest control company to assess the extent of the infestation and develop a treatment plan.
The time it takes to eliminate a dampwood termite infestation depends on the damage’s extent and the colony’s size. The expert team at Tom’s Pest Control Adelaide will do everything possible to minimise disruptions in your home while ensuring a comprehensive removal of all termites and their eggs.
It depends on your specific policy and the extent of the damage. For example, some homeowners’ insurance policies may cover termite damage, while others may not. Reviewing your policy or speaking with your insurance agent to determine your coverage is best.
Tom’s Pest Control Adelaide believe in effective communication as a key aspect of maintaining high-service levels. Please feel free to contact us by phone or online if you have any queries or problems.
