Termites in Michigan: Types, Risks, and How to Prevent Them

The mention of the word termites often strikes fear into property owners. These insects, which fall under the order Isoptera cause millions of dollars worth of damage to homes and businesses across the United States each year. Unfortunately, Michigan is no exception. Learn about termites in Michigan: types, risks, and how to prevent them.

Types of Termites in Michigan

Several different types of termites exist. However, the variety most impacting Michigan residents is the Eastern Subterranean termite, known scientifically as the Reticulitermes flavipes. Pest control professionals and insect experts label this critter the most serious wood-damaging insect in the entire state.

What Attracts Termites?

Moisture draws termites to specific locations. The insects tend to favor wet or damp wood. Oftentimes, they gather in large numbers in areas of a home or building such as:

• Structures close to soil like foundations
• Attached decks, porches, or enclosures
• Poorly ventilated or humid spaces like attics and basements
• Cracks in wooden structures

It is also worth noting that these bugs need cellulose to survive. This substance is not only found in wood but in anything containing paper like books. Therefore, once they enter a residence or commercial property, they can damage more than the building’s structure.

Fortunately, other varieties of termites like the Formosan and Drywood do not make Michigan home.

Where Are Termites Found in Michigan?

Termites congregate in Michigan’s southern portion. The critters commonly swarm in places such as Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Grand Rapids. Luckily, termites rarely impact the state’s northern section including cities like Marquette and Traverse City.

What Risks Do Termites Present?

If not properly addressed, termite damage often proves costly and strikes numerous parts of a home or business including:

• Foundations
• Flooring
• Walls
• Support beams
• Sheetrock
• Basements
• Attics
• Roofing

Signs of Termite Damage or Infestation

Signs of possible trouble include:

• Increasing incidents of water damage
• The formation of mud tunnels throughout the home or building
• Buckling or crumbling walls or ceilings
• The appearance of maze-like designs on walls or other structures
• Visible swarms of termites inside the impacted locations

Home or business owners must look out for and address these problems as soon as they notice them. Typically, these indicators suggest the presence of an already significant infestation. Furthermore, termite problems usually cannot be resolved without a professional pest control company’s assistance. Do-it-yourself efforts typically fail and could prove costly.

How to Prevent Termites?

A termite infestation’s most effective remedy is prevention. Therefore, following certain safeguards increases a home or business owner’s chances of avoiding extensive property damage and costly repairs. Pest control professionals and environmental experts recommend:

The Removal of Popular Food Sources

Property owners must eliminate a termite’s obvious food sources such as wood and paper. Therefore, any trash containing wood or old books should be thrown out as soon as possible. Moreover, it is important for homeowners to closely secure piles of firewood.

Inspect the Home or Building

Routine property checks must be performed. Any visible cracks in walls, ceilings, or foundations require immediate repair.

Maintain Trees and Shrubbery

Trees and shrubs must be properly maintained. Furthermore, rotting wood and eyesores like tree stumps provide termites solid breeding grounds and should be removed.

Keep Both the Inside and Outside as Dry as Possible

Property owners must prevent standing water from collecting. Water quickly rots wood and surrounding structures, which increases the risk of attracting termites.

Contact Professional Pest Controllers

This point cannot be overstated. Home or business owners need to contact a professional pest control company at the first sign of trouble. Termites are capable of causing significant damage costing many thousands of dollars in repairs.