Termites eat what kind of wood

This is an organic compound that serves as the primary building block of plants. Thus, termites look for this compound in plants, wood, cotton fibres, and paper products. But are you wondering if termites prefer certain kinds of wood? The answer is yes, they do favour specific wood types. Untreated softwood, specifically Springwood, is one of their favourites.

They also like many untreated hardwoods. Another favourite is gumtree, primarily because this is a natural habitat for termites. Some termites also prefer particle boards. Some termites love hardwood floors, bannisters, and smooth and dry furniture. Last but not least, expect termites to feast on your paper-based items. These include your plasterboard lining paper and sheetrock. The sheetrock wall features paper that lines up the front. Apart from the types of wood we discussed above, termites also have a secondary list of favourites.

Do termites eat cedar? No, at least at first. Furthermore, termites also go for redwood tree timber, cypress tree wood, and teak. Take note that these three types of wood come with natural termite deterrents. This includes attached fence posts, stair casings, trellises and door facings.

It is best to maintain an inch gap between soil and any wood portions of the home. Routine inspections. Perform routine foundation inspections to check for signs of termite damage. Subterranean termites are easier to identify because of their mud tubes.

Dry wood termites are much more difficult to identify and generally require a professional inspection. We can identify termite infestations, make the necessary recommendations and alert you if we see anything that might attract termites in the future. Call us today! Residential : Commercial : Termites are equipped with special mouthparts for chewing wood and other sources of cellulose, plus microorganisms such as bacteria, protozoans and an organism similar to bacteria called Achaea.

These microorganisms enable termites to break down cellulose into digestible substances, thus enabling the insects to obtain life-sustaining energy and other necessary nutrients. Not only do termites eat wood, but many species of the insect live in it, too. This makes finding food sources easier for the pests.

Generally, termites live in trees, lumber, soil, and wooden structures. Therefore, homes are vulnerable to damage caused by termite feeding. In a number of cases, termite invasions in homes go unnoticed for long periods of time. Once colonies are established deep inside the structure, termites can stay permanently without being noticed by the homeowner. With the exception of certain termite species that require moisture or soil to survive, the pests only need wood.

After finding a good place, they mate and lay the eggs. They are often confused with the alates of ants, but they are slightly different. Flying ants have a narrow waist, wings of different sizes and transparent wings. No matter the category of termites and their role in the colony, they all feed on cellulose.

This can be found in various types of wood, as well as in paper, cardboard and other items around the house. They can feed on just about any wooden item inside or around your home. They might start with the frames of the doors and windows and then continue with the beams in the ceiling and landings too.

Boxes on the floor and documents found on shelves may be attacked as well. Along their way, they will even destroy electrical wires and various cables. They can devour an entire beam or balk, including its heart. If not stopped, they will eventually leave just a hollow shell behind. Subterranean termites have been found eating almost any kind of wood.

And yes, this includes hardwood, ironbark or various types of treated timber. They do have their own preferences, but if needed they can eat almost anything that contains cellulose. They are consuming the wood from the inside out, trying to be as subtle as possible, so they can feed in silence without being disturbed. Since its members are constantly replaced including the queen , a colony basically has an unlimited lifespan.