Termites in Illinois

Experts have divided termites into world zones called Termite infestation Probability Zones. Illinois is part of TIP zone two, so there is a high chance of getting termites within Illinois homes.

In our article, we will discuss a few of the most common questions homeowners ask about termites in Illinois and how homeowners can avoid termites on their property.

Let’s get started!

Termites will infest your property and cause damage to wooden structures if left untreated.

Most homeowners’ insurance does not cover termite damage; you may not know termites have caused damage because they are typically found eating the wood in hidden areas of a property in an Illinois home.

If you know the signs of termites in Illinois, you should be able to prevent the damage through pest control.

What species of termites are in Illinois?

The most wood-destructive termites in Illinois are the Subterranean termites which are smaller than drywood termites. They can be found living below ground all over Iowa and Illinois. If you live in Illinois, we are sure you have heard about the termite infestations affecting the state. On the positive side, you can prevent termites through pest control and by making changes to the home.

Are there Formosan termites or drywood termites in Illinois?

There has not been any evidence of Formosan termites in Illinois. They like warm areas in the south of the U.S.

Are there drywood termites in Illinois?

To date, not yet, it is possible for they could travel to Illinois in wooden items like wine crates and furniture. Pest control services could identify the species not in their usual habitat.

Termites in Illinois are common; they cause severe damage to a property

There are two species of termite in Illinois, and those are the dark southeastern subterranean termite and the Eastern subterranean termite

Damage by a subterranean termite infestation needs to be taken seriously. Termites can cause severe damage, and quite often, homeowners do not know it is happening until a termite colony has caused severe structural damage.

Subterranean termites consume wood for the cellulose it contains. They live in large nests underground in soil and build mud tubes to reach a food source and enter through cracks in your home’s foundation. Then they eat the wood in hidden areas, such as floors and walls.

Signs of Subterranean termites

More often than not, homeowners discover they have termites after breaking a piece of termite-infested wood.

Seeing a swarm of flying termites on a warm day is another sign of a large mature termite problem nearby; termites swarm to mate and start a new colony.

Subterranean termites live underground; to travel, they build mud tunnels. Mud tubes near your home’s foundation are another sign of subterranean termites. The mud tubes provide enough moisture when traveling above the soil; without enough moisture they would not survive.

Look out for piles of discarded wings when performing a termite inspection. When termites leave their nests to mate and establish colonies, they shed their wings. Look at spider webs near the foundation of your property for wings.

I have discovered a termite nest. What should I do now?

You can purchase termite bait stations to get rid of these pests. Termite workers take the bait and feed it to the other members of the nest, killing the entire colony.

You can also purchase a barrier of termiticide placed around the foundation outside the home.

If the problem is severe, call a pest control expert for a free quote. They will inspect the issue, decide on the species and give you a treatment plan to get rid of the pests.

Severe termite infestation

When a termite control expert notifies you of a severe infestation generally, it means the termite colony is close to your property, and worker termites are in your home. It is rare for nests to be in the house.

Our top tips for preventing a termite problem in your home

Good home maintenance will help prevent a termite problem. Termites can be difficult to spot in the yard. Removing their hiding places will help.

Below are some tips to avoid them:

If your yard has any dead trees or limbs on your property, get rid of them. The same should be done with piles of leaves and other garden debris. Store firewood away from the property.

Make an inspection of your home for damage. Use caulk to seal cracks around doors and windows. Check for leaky pipes and faucets and get them repaired. This will control moisture levels.

Why do termites in Illinois cause so much damage?

In their natural habitat, termites are good for the environment, breaking down dead wood. When they feed on wooden structures in homes, however, it can be devastating for the homeowner.

Worker termites chew and eat the wood to produce cellulose, then take it back to feed the rest of the colony. They do this twenty-four hours a day; they do not sleep, hence being able to cause so much damage.

Termites are the biggest threat in Illinois; they are a more significant threat than the risk of floods, fire, and wind.

The importance of termite control inspections

When homeowners inspect the home, a termite infestation may be difficult to detect. Discovering termite damage to your home can take a long time. Therefore, a pest control inspection by a termite control service must take place annually.

Usually, after a termite treatment, pest control companies offer a free inspection annually. They will also provide a prevention plan.

Should I buy a house with termites? 

Perhaps with advice from a pest control expert.

Many people ask this question in Illinois and all over the country. People wishing to buy are concerned about termites destroying a building. Termite inspections are completed before purchase, and any damage found will be repaired by a pest control expert.

And finally,

We discussed in our article, ‘Termites in Illinois,’ and presented tips and advice on termite control. We hope you have found it helpful.

Good luck!