About Subterranean Termite Mud Tubes
Subterranean termites are the stuff of homeowners’ nightmares. Common in Roseville, CA and other parts of the country, these destructive insects make their way indoors by building protective tunnels from soil, wood, and their own saliva or feces. Known as mud tubes, these tunnels are your cue to get in touch with a trusted pest control company right away.
What Does a Termite Mud Tunnel Look Like?
Termites are susceptible to dehydration, so they seek out moist areas of the home. You might find them in your bathroom, laundry room or near baseboards. Measuring one-quarter to one inch in diameter, mud tubes are unevenly shaped. They often go undetected when subterranean termites tunnel into crawlspaces, foundation cracks, or behind walls.
Types of Mud Tubes
Although the sight of any mud tube should trigger a call for professional pest control, these are the four types of tunnels built by termites:
Drop tubes - These tubes connect working mud tubes to the ground and make it easier for termite workers to access food. These tubes are typically made of dried mud and are about the thickness of a pencil.
Exploratory tubes - These tubes are usually thinner than drop tubes and are made of wetter, more pliable mud. They allow termites to search for food sources. These tubes aren’t linked to wood and are usually empty when discovered.
Swarming castle tubes - These tubes protect dainty swarming termites when they leave the nest. These large tubes are set up as temporary shelters.
Working tubes - These tubes enable termites to reach food sources. Built to last, they may cover long distances and accommodate thousands of termites and are often found along walls and other vertical surfaces.
For more information about different subterranean termite tubes, call (855) 768-0615 or contact us online today!
Mud Tube Prevention
Homeowners in Roseville, CA and other areas of the country do have some power over subterranean termites. Start with these preventive measures:
- Fix plumbing leaks as soon as they occur.
- Ensure proper air flow throughout the home.
- Keep gutters and downspouts in proper working order.
- Avoid storing wood in the basement or sub-floor area.
- Keep mulch, wood, and vegetation as far from the house as possible.
How to Remove Termite Mud Tunnels
Mud tunnel removal is never something you want to handle on your own. Mud tubes can give pest control technicians valuable insight into how termites are accessing your home as well as how serious the infestation may be. Even inactive tubes can signal a current infestation. If you’ve removed the mud tunnels before professionals arrive, it could take longer to diagnose the problem.
Call your local pest pros the minute you spot a mud tube so that they can inspect your property. A professional will be able to safely and effectively remove the mud tunnels, while also providing treatment to prevent future infestations and keep your home safe from further damage.
Contact Advanced IPM When Termites Strike
Termites can cause devastating damage to homes. Preventive measures go a long way toward preventing infestations, and termite inspections reduce the likelihood of costly repairs or even partial reconstruction. Advanced IPM provides environmentally-conscious, effective pest control in Roseville, CA and other cities in the region. Our friendly technicians also educate customers on preventive techniques.
Contact us today at (855) 768-0615 for an inspection or to eliminate an infestation in your home or business.
