3 Ways to Detect Termite Damage in Phoenix

Identify Your Enemy: IS IT THE PHOENIX TERMITE?

There are many different types of wood-boring insects so it is essential that you know how to distinguish termites from other household pests such as the carpenter ant. The first step is to identify whether you are dealing with Termites in Phoenix. Termites are very small, but upon close examination, one can see that they have straight antennae as opposed to the elbowed antennae of the carpenter ant for which they are often mistaken. Another characteristic unique to termites in Phoenix is that they are often a pale yellow color and have soft bodies. They also have no discernable waist along the segmented portion of their bodies unlike the carpenter ant. If the termite colony is already large enough you may even see the winged version of these Phoenix termites. Winged- termites have 2 sets of wings of the same size whereas a carpenter ant has front wings that are much larger than the rear set. Knowing these characteristics will help you identify whether you have been hit by the infamous termite or their lesser known competitors.

Watch For The Clues Your Phoenix Termite Can Leave You.

Sometimes it is hard to know if the is damage is from termites simply because the little critter has gone invisible. When this happens you can use other visual clues to detect a termite infestation. The most common clues are the following:

Shelter tubes. These are small enclosed passageways, or tubes, made from soil, saliva, fecal matter, and other materials that usually run from the soil to above ground wood. Termites will build these to provide safe access when moving from one food source to another by subterranean Termites.

Termite Mounds. Watch for wood colored mounds that have accumulated on flooring around wooden structures. Drywood termites will live in any wooden structure such as structural timber, furniture and hardwood floors. These termites push fecal pellets, called frass, outside their tunnels and chambers leaving a distinct sign that they have invaded your Phoenix home.

Discarded wings. Once a colony of termites has matured they will leave the nest to start new colonies. Not long after they take flight, they shed their wings. You may find small piles of wings on surfaces around your home like window sills or in spider webs.

Stop! You Can Look And Listen to Find Phoenix Termite Damage.

Amazingly enough you can actually listen for wood damage! Yes I said listen. You want to conduct periodic inspections of your home to be sure you are not infested with termites and one way of doing this is by tapping large sections of wood with a small hammer or large screw driver. If a section of wood sounds hollow when you tap it you may have wood boring insect damage. To determine whether it is termites rather than carpenter ants you can use a stethoscope or another listening device. Termites do not make noise, but carpenter ants make soft, rustling noises when they are moving about in their chambers.

Another way to inspect for possible termite damage to your Phoenix home is to cut away a piece of wood from the suspected site. Termite damage causes wood to be become fragile and easily broken and the wood will very likely pull away with the slightest force.

Published By:

6056 E Baseline Rd #122
Mesa, AZ85206

Tony Kaufman

Tony is the co-owner of Varsity Termite and Pest Control, a family owned and operated company in Arizona with over 21 years of experience. They specialize in termite and scorpion control services.

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Testimonials

Guy that came out for my termite problem was very knowledgeable, explained everything thoroughly and did a great job. Would definitely recommend them to others for termite control in the Mesa area.
-Terry J. in Mesa, AZ
5 star workmanship and customer service. I haven’t had termites in years since first calling Varsity for my termite inspection and treatment. Their termite prevention package has made my life worry free!
-Elizabeth L. in Gilbert, AZ
Tony called me within 5 minutes of my hitting the submit button for a scorpion quote. I never heard from the other two competitors. The job was done the next day and he even directed me to the $100 discount coupon. The scorpions are gone and my kids are safe again. I will be calling Varsity again and telling my friends about them.
-Britney R. in Chandler, AZ
Great experience.
-Monica S. in Mesa, AZ
I wanted a family owned business and got one, I was very pleased everyone was so pleasant and friendly. I plan on signing up for more service.
-Theresa C. in Mesa, AZ
Tony was great and worked with my hectic schedule. So far I haven’t seen any creepy crawlers!
-Kayla D. in Queen Creek, AZ
Varsity responded quickly and took care of the problem. I now have them set up to come once a month at a reasonable price. There were lots of dead bugs, including scorpions, which showed me that their treatments are very effective.
-Jodi M. in Gilbert, AZ
Arrived on time, high quality, quick, and efficient work done by them. Very customer friendly, professional, and very honest and informative. Price was great. I would recommend them to anyone.
-Sarah R. in Apache Junction, AZ
Called back within minutes of my request , set up an inspection asap, price was fair, showed up right on time did the work even having to move some shelving I failed to have ready, also moved them back when done. Work was done as said and cleaned up everything when done, the individual doing the work was prompt, professional and very courteous. I highly recommend Varsity and as I am entering into flipping houses they will be the Pest Control people on my team.
-ST. in Apache Junction, AZ
He is very straight forward, very honest, very business like. He really tries to make the customer happy.
-Frank B.
I wanted to let you know that yesterday’s service with Robert and Jared was better than expected! They were obviously well-trained and knew their jobs very well. The work was quick, efficient and thorough with virtually no disruption to my day. Your inspection of my property and their treatment was top notch and I look forward to referring Varsity to all who are looking for professional and trustworthy service.
-Judy R.