Glossary of Termite Control Terms and Definitions
When hiring a termite control company, it’s helpful to know some commonly used industry terms and their definitions.
dampwood termites
Termites that prefer wood that has a high moisture content
drywood termites
Usually found in dry, non-decayed wood, including live trees, buildings, utility poles, etc.
hardwood
Wood from non-evergreen trees such as maple, oak and ash. Some termites prefer boring into hardwood.
Integrated Pest Management
A planned pest control program that uses various methods (pesticides, structural alterations, regular inspection and monitoring, etc.) to control pests, including termites
Also known as: IPM
new wood
Standing or freshly felled trees and unseasoned lumber. Some termite species prefer new wood and seek out standing trees or those that have been recently cut.
old wood
Seasoned or dried lumber. This type of wood may attract some types of termites, including drywood termites.
softwood
Wood from evergreen trees such as pines, firs and spruces. Drywood termites often prefer this type of wood.
subterranean termites
Colonies of termites that reside underground. They can cause damage to home foundations.
swarmers
The winged forms of male and female termites that leave the colony in the spring or fall, usually in a large swarm
Also known as: alates
swarming
When the winged forms of male and female termites leave the colony to mate and start new colonies. Swarms are often the first sign of a termite infestation.
termite bait
An attractant (usually an artificial or chemical substance) that is consumed like food. Most termite baits contain a toxin that termites ingest or take back to their nests, where large numbers of termites ingest the toxin.
termite shield
A barrier (usually made of noncorrosive metal) that’s placed in or on a foundation wall or at some other point in a structure to prevent termites from entering
termiticide
Pesticide used to protect a structure against subterranean termites. Termiticide is usually sprayed by a termite extermination company. However, some termiticides are available for purchase at hardware stores or garden centers.
trenching
A method of preventing termites from entering a structure by digging a trench around the structure and treating the soil used to fill in the trench with a termiticide or other preventive product.
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