We have gone into great detail recently on all things termites. But when it comes to termite control in Elk Grove, Sacramento, & Roseville you can never have enough information. As we have already discussed in our recent blog about termite swarms now is the time of year when colonies of termites spread and expand. This period, known as swarming usually happens at times when the climate changes from mild and wet to warm and dry. So as we have already reiterated, springtime is when you have to be at your most vigilant when it comes to termite control in Elk Grove, Sacramento, & Roseville.

As we deal with termites practically everyday, we have decided to put together a list of some of the most common questions we hear from our customers when it comes to termite control in Sacramento County. Take a look below. If you have any additional questions that you would like answered about termites, or any other pests that you have encountered please leave a comment below. We will be creating new articles with additional termite and other pest control related questions in the future.

1. What Are Termites?

This is a nice and easy one to start off on. Termites are a form of WDO (wood destroying organisms) insects. They feast on dead matter and cellulose (mainly in the form of wood) and live in colonies that on average can contain 3 million if left undisturbed.

2. What Do Termites Look Like?

Not all termites are exactly alike. There are three main categories when it comes to termites and within those categories are different roles depending on maturity. The three main categories are as follows and they are all found in Elk Grove, Sacramento, and Roseville:

Drywood Termites, Subterranean Termites, and Dampwood Termites

Termites are highly social insects, and within their colony is a set structure for their citizens. They can also be split into three different roles:

Worker Termites

The smallest of the kind, they are mainly there to build nests, tend to the queen, and expand the colony territory. They are lighter in color, usually cream, thick waist, and small pincers (called mandibles).

Soldier Termites

They are larger than the workers, usually darker in color, ranging from cream to brown. Their pincers are much larger also. They mainly reside in the outskirts of the colony, protecting it from other species (carpenter ants are their main nemesis).

Swarmer Termites

Also known as alates. They are the most noticeable as they have long wings, usually twice the length of their bodies. They range from brown to dark brown. Their role is to swarm the nest, finding new areas to inhabit and create colonies of their own.

3. What Is Termite Treatment?

Termite treatment is the service we provide that will exterminate the large population of termites that live and feast in your home. This treatment should also help prevent a re-infestation of your property. This can come in many different forms and we offer a few services that you might be interested in.

4. Is Termite Control Necessary?

Well that all depends on if you want to have your home last for your lifetime. Termite control is immensely important in the greater Sacramento region, mainly because termites breed quickly and never sleep. They work 24 hours a day and 7 days a week feasting away at your home. While we stated that an average termite colony could reach 3 million, there have been colonies discovered with an estimated 70 million citizens. 70 million termites eating away at your home for years on end will make certain of its demise. They cause an estimated $5 billion worth of damage in properties each year in the US alone. So termite control is necessary, and we feel privileged to be the ones that are fighting that battle for you.

5. What Is The Most Effective Type Of Termite Treatment?

As we have explained already not all termites are the same, so termite treatments must adapt as well.

Subterranean Termite Treatment

Termidor

We use a lethal liquid that is applied to the soil and exterior walls of your home. This creates a hazardous perimeter around your home that termites can’t detect, so they don’t even try and avoid it. We use Termidor®, the premium termite pesticide in the business. The liquid binds itself to the soil, is odor free and will not be noticed by your or your family, so there is no disruption. The termites are unaware that they have ingested this, and are spreading it among their colony (they eat their own feces) until it is too late.

Drywood & Dampwood Termite Treatment

Termite Fumigation

When people think of termites they automatically think of those big colorful tents that completely encapsulate homes. It is the most commonly recognized form of termite treatment. This involves pumping odorless, colorless gas throughout your home, which will suffocate all termite infestations that are present. The treatment usually takes 3 days in which you and your family will have to relocate.

Termite Sprays & Foams.

These are applied by drilling holes in the known infested areas of your home. The sprays will suffocate the termites that are present. The only drawback to this treatment is that it won’t affect the areas that unknown termite infestations are growing in.

You can find more about our termite treatment options.

6. Why Does It Seem That Termites Are More Common In Northern California? 

Termites are prevalent in Northern California mainly because of the climate. The mild temperatures and small amount of rain in the winter coupled with the heat and dryness in the summer is ideal conditions for termites to thrive. The natural woodland coupled with the majority of homes being built with wooden structures aides in their growth and development. It is why in areas such as Elk Grove and Roseville that you have to be extra vigilant when it comes to noticing the signs of termite infestations and expansions.

7. What can I do to prevent termites in my home?

Preventing termites from infesting your home is a difficult task as they work completely out of sight. They can also be brought into your home unbeknownst to you through old furniture or firewood. One of the best preventative measures you can take is to have frequent WDO inspections in your home. These will allow us to identify any growing termite problem you have and exterminate it before it becomes a much bigger issue.

As already explained termites can cause an immense amount of damage if left undetected. If you’re worried that your home could be under attack from these little pests you should give us a call now on (888) 885-5017.

Pegasus Pest Control is the premium pest control company in Elk Grove, Sacramento, and Roseville CA. We offer competitive rates and guarantee results. If you are in need of a pest control service in the greater Sacramento region, don’t hesitate to call us today.