I think I have a termite problem - won't my regular pest control service take care of this infestation?

No. Termites can be one of the toughest insects to control and they can also be one of the most serious pests because they can damage the wood structure of your home. Conventional control of subterranean termites (the most common is the US) involves putting a chemical barrier between the ground, where termites live, and your home, where they get their nourishment. Since termites can enter a structure in a space that is roughly the thickness of a piece of paper, it is critical that a complete barrier is achieved. This treatment is much more specialized than pest control treatment for other common insects. Termite treatment requires the expertise of a professional knowledgeable about termite biology and habits and the latest in termite treatment methods.

PCO is Canada's largest pest control company, and a leader in the development of fast, effective and environmentally responsible pest control products and application techniques. Our 24-hour Emergency Response Centre and government-certified technicians are ready to answer your call with complete pest control solutions, including the PCO-exclusive Intelligent Pest Management program, and a confident money-back satisfaction guarantee.

The Intelligent Pest Management (IPM) program relies on brains, not chemicals. We focus on the Least Toxic Approach (LTA), combining effective yet non-traditional techniques and technologies to defeat pests. Not only does this bring the problem under control, but it helps preserve the indoor air quality of your home and protect the environment.

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What are termites?

Termites are small, ant-like insects. However, they differ from ants in that they feed off the cellulose in wood. Working largely unseen under the surface, they can tunnel through the wooden structural members in buildings and completely destroy them. Wood that comes in contact with the soil, such as the exterior trim or cladding on your home, provides a perfect point of entry for a termite colony.

There are several types of termites, the most common being the subterranean termite.

Termite infestations are a serious matter, and effective treatment requires special chemicals applied by trained professionals.

How do I recognize a termite?

In Canada, the Subterranean (ground nesting) Termite occurs only in British Columbia and parts of southern Ontario. In a termite colony there are 3 castes: the queen, soldiers and workers. The queen is not seen outside the centre of the colony. The soldier is brown and white with forceps-like jaws used for defending the colony, and measures 12 mm (1/2"). The worker, responsible for feeding the queen and colony-building, measures 6 mm (1/4")

Do termites fly?

At certain times of the year, depending on temperature and humidity, termites swarm. These winged forms of termites are the future queens. After mating, the queen attempts to establish a new colony. The presence of flying insects in large numbers should be investigated by a professional. (Swarming is not common in Ontario.)

Do termites cause damage?

Yes. Termites are the most destructive of all wood-infesting insects. If proper control procedures are not carried out, serious structural damage will occur.

How does this damage occur?

Termites feed mainly on cellulose, a major component of wood. Continuous feeding leads to complete destruction.

When are termites most common?

Once a colony is established, termites are a year-round problem. There is an increase in colony expansion activity during warm weather.

When am I most likely to see termites?

Subterranean termite colonies are found in the soil and thrive where wood is in contact with the ground. The worker termite reaches the wood by constructing shelter tubes made of earth, excrement and saliva. Because they are sensitive to light and dryness, this tube maintains the ideal climate of moisture and temperature. The presence of these tubes indicates a termite infestation.

Are termites hazardous to humans?

No. The presence of termites does not constitute a health hazard.

What are their breeding habits? Do they multiply quickly?

During certain times of the year (usually spring), the colony will produce male and female winged reproductives. These winged termites leave the colony in large swarms to reproduce, with the males dying shortly after. The queens can live for up to 15 years. Their only function is to lay eggs. Should the queen die, the supplementary reproductives take over this duty. A single colony has a population numbering in the thousands.

Can weather conditions affect the size of a termite infestation?

Since termites prefer dampness, the combination of this and warmth are ideal conditions for establishing colonies.

Can I do anything to prevent a termite infestation on my property?

Yes. By removing scrap wood from ground contact under and around buildings and by not erecting wooden structures directly touching the soil, you can minimize the risk of termite infestations. Only properly treated wood should be used in new construction.

If I suspect a termite infestation, what can l do to eliminate them?

The required chemicals for termite elimination are not for sale to the public and must be used under strictly controlled conditions. Your local PCO Service and Products Centre has a team of professionals trained in the use of these chemicals.