Basic Termites

   Because of Hawaii’s tropical weather, we have one of the worst termite problems in the country with millions of dollars in damage to structures every year.

   There are basically two different types of termites.  Probably the most well known is the drywood termite.   Drywood termites are responsible for the droppings found around baseboards and window sills.   They also love to eat wood furniture.  The treatment for drywood termites is normally tenting. If it is a small area or if tenting is impractical (such as in a condo), there are sprays on the market that can be used.

   Drywood termites are sometimes confused with winged carpenter ants. You can tell the difference between the two by their bodies. The ant has a cinched waist with two distinct parts to his body and crooked antennae. The termite’s body is one long piece with straight antennae. 

   The other type of termite, and by far the most destructive, is the subterranean (or ground) termite.  Subterranean termites can eat through an entire house in a matter of months. They are white in color and travel through mud tunnels that appear as if made of sand. Their tunnels are sometimes confused with the mud tunnels made by wasps.

   The treatment for ground termites is pumping poison into the ground or installing a baiting system. 

Termites are not something that you can completely prevent.  But to lower the chances of an infestation, removed untreated wood from your yard, keep moisture away from the base of the home, and keep the slab of the home visible so you can see any tunnels that develop. 

   The warranties for termite treatment are usually only for a few years. It is important to monitor your home for termites by having regular inspections by a professional to avoid costly repairs.