Termites In New England: Myths Vs. Facts

Let's face it, termites have a bad reputation.They eat wood and have the ability to damage homes extensively. There are numerous myths about termites that have perpetuated over the years that have caused some confusion about the damage and treatment of these pests.Make no mistake about it, these pests are bad news but misunderstandings and falsehoods about termites can cause homeowners to lose money and cause lots of heartache if termites are found to be occupying your home. Here a some very important myths (and facts) about termites in New England.

Termite Myth #1 - If your house is built on a slab or concrete frame, your house is safe from termites.

Fact

Virtually all homes have a wood frame, so no matter how the wood is separated from the soil, termites can work their way to it from the ground underneath.

Termite Myth #2 - My home was treated for termites before construction, so I don't need to worry.

Fact

Most treatments are not warranteed for over a few years. Environmental factors, products used, and the quality of work performed impact the length of time the treatment is viable. Having a regular inspection will help identify if termites are in your structure.

Termite Myth #3 - Home built with brick, stucco, vinyl or stone have no chance of getting termites in our area.

Fact

Termites can build mud tubes to bypass the exterior shell and reach the wood structure. Although the exterior may be covered in brick, wood, vinyl, stucco, cement board, or stone, the vast majority of homes are built with wood frames.

Termite Myth #4 - Termites are ants. So treat for ants and termites will disappear!

Fact

While flying ants have some similarities to termites they are not ants. Check out our ant page at Pest-End online to see the distinct differences between ants and termites. Treatment therefore is very different.

Termite Myth #5 - Termites have no use so why not just eradicate all termites.

Fact

Termites, in fact, are an incredibly useful and necessary part of our eco system. They provide a valuable service by breaking down dead wood in forests into soil. Termites were one of the earth's first recyclers.

Termite Myth #6 - Termites are not a big problem in the northeastern U.S. but rather in the warm southern climates.

Fact

Termites live in many different structures above what was once considered north of the termite belt. Assuming that just because our climate is colder does not mean we northerners don't have termites. In fact, most northern cities have moderate to heavy infestations.

Termite Myth #7 - My neighbors tented their house, which caused my house to have termites. They moved from one area to another.

Fact

The tenting of a house does not cause termites to flee to neighboring houses. If you notice termites at your house soon after, it could be coincidental or that you are now on a heightened look out for these pests. In fact, termite colonies can be large and use several houses in one neighborhood. Termite control in one house can make termites more active in another home that is already infested, but it will not drive them to another house.

Termite Myth #8 - Termites are destroyed when land and tree forests are removed or leveled.

Fact

Most species of termites (there are 41 different species of termites) live in the ground. In fact, when trees are taken off a property, the termite colony loses its main food source and must go in search of a new meal ticket. This, unfortunately, could be the foundations of homes in the area. It could be your home! If you are moving into a new home where the land was recently cleared, it's a good idea to check for termites before moving in.

Termite Myth #9 We should kill all termites because they are destructive pests that serve no function.

Fact

Termites provide a valuable service by breaking down dead wood in forests into soil. They were one of the earth's first recyclers. They are part of the circle of life and a critical part of the ecosystem.

Termite Myth #10 - Termites are easy to find, so you really don't need a professional company to inspect.

Fact

Termites are small, stealthy and very hard to find because they hide out of sight in cracks and crevices that are not easily accessible. Once you finally spot them on your property, it's most likely too late. Once you have found them, some damage has probably already been done so, it is a good idea to have annual inspections.

Termite Myth #11 - Do-it-yourself treatments work just as well as professional treatments.

Fact

While DIY treatment may seem like the most affordable way to deal with an infestation, it may just give the colony time to grow and do more damage. Commercial insecticides and repellents aren't strong enough to take out a termite colony. Even if you do find the right chemicals to use, it'd be difficult for you to target the right areas without the help of a professional.