Instructions / Assembly

5
Formosan Termites: The Formosan subterranean termite is the most destructive termite in
the U.S. These termites live in the ground like common subterranean termites, but have
colonies that are many times greater in size. A colony of Formosan termites may have
millions of members and can consume hundreds of pounds of wood in a single year.
Formosan termites are located in coastal areas and are especially prevalent in Louisiana
and Hawaii. If you live in an area suspected to contain Formosan termites, the frequency of
stake monitoring should be increased to once a month.
Drywood and Dampwood Termites: While subterranean termites are the most common
and the variety that Spectracide Terminate
®
Termite Detection & Killing Stakes
2
are designed
to treat, other types of termites do exist. Drywood termite colonies live in undecayed wood
with little moisture and do not have to maintain constant contact with the ground. Drywood
termites are found along the Southeast, Gulf and Southern California coasts.
Dampwood termite colonies live in moist wood, like tree stumps or areas in a house that
contain a high degree of moisture. They do not have to maintain constant contact with the
ground. These termites can be three times the size of subterranean termites. Dampwood
termites are found along the coastal areas of Northern California and the Pacific Northwest.
Homes in one of these areas can have subterranean and some other type of termite.
If you live in an area where drywood, dampwood and/or Formosan termites are found,
regular inspections, by a certified professional pest control operator, are recommended to
determine if these types of termites are in your home.
Inspecting for Termites
Regular termite inspections are an important step in an effective termite program. Most
states have guidelines and certification programs for termite inspectors. When having your
home inspected, make sure the person or firm is authorized by your state to inspect for
termites. A typical termite inspection will involve the following steps:
1.
An e
xamination of your house foundation searching for termite mud tunnels. Subterranean
termites live in colonies in the ground. In order for them to enter an above ground food
Reducing the Risk of Termites
Spectracide Terminate Termite Detection & Killing Stakes
2
are not recommended as sole
protection against termites, and for active infestations, get a professional inspection.
In addition to using Spectracide Terminate Termite Detection & Killing Stakes
2
, here
are some important steps you can take to reduce the risk of termite infestation.
• Eliminate any sources of moisture for termites. Check for leaky water spigots, sump
pumps or sprinklers. Look for any areas that stay moist for a long time, such as mulch
or under bricks or large rocks and ensure that water flows away from your home. Also
check for interior leaks in pipes or from roof drainage. Pay particular attention to areas
near kitchens or bathrooms, and attached porches or decks.
•
Remo
ve potential food sources that will attract termites to the vicinity of your home.
These include direct wood-to-soil contact (fences, stairs, trellises), wood piles, stumps or
dead bushes and other wood debris.
• Apply a pre-treatment. When building a new home, check with
your contractor for soil pre-treatments that can be applied by an
authorized pest control operator.
•
Have a regular termite inspection.
Certified termite inspectors
can point out other areas that attract termites to your home
and may recommend other treatments such as mechanical
alteration, soil or foundation treatments.