At Pest Pros of Michigan, we’re no strangers to the damage subterranean termites can do in Kalamazoo homes. Our technicians bring years of focused experience and hands-on knowledge to every inspection and treatment. While termites serve a natural role in decomposing wood outdoors, they can’t tell the difference between a tree stump and your home’s framing. That mistake leads to massive repair bills for Michigan families—adding up to nearly $5 billion each year across the country.
Kalamazoo is a hotspot for subterranean termites, and knowing that risk helps you act before damage sets in. We tailor our termite control services to what’s actually happening in the soil and structure around your home. Our methods aren’t one-size-fits-all—they’re proven treatments backed by our local expertise. We know how to stop termite colonies before they cause serious harm.
Termite infestations pose serious risks for homeowners in Kalamazoo for a few key reasons:
Structural Damage and High Repair Costs
Subterranean termites consume cellulose found in wood, which means everything from wall studs to floor joists is fair game. When they invade a structure, they compromise the strength and safety of the building. Floors can sag, doors may jam, and entire sections of a home may require rebuilding. Repairs for termite destruction often run into the thousands—and since most insurance companies exclude termite damage from coverage, that cost falls directly on homeowners. In Kalamazoo’s climate, where moisture levels can support termite activity, the threat is even more pressing.
Difficult to Detect
One of the toughest parts of dealing with termites is how well they stay out of sight. These insects live and tunnel underground, entering homes silently and staying hidden behind walls and under flooring. Homeowners usually don’t see them until visible damage appears—by then, colonies have often been active for months or even years. That’s why routine inspections and quick action in Kalamazoo homes are so important for catching infestations before they spread.
Given these challenges, having a reliable termite prevention and treatment plan is essential for Kalamazoo property owners. Without it, small infestations can turn into major repairs that threaten the safety and value of your home. A proactive approach with professional support helps safeguard the structure, preserves your investment, and keeps your home secure for the long term.
Catching subterranean termites early is key to limiting costly damage to your home in Kalamazoo.
Keep an eye out for these four common warning signs:
Mud/Shelter Tubes
To move safely between the soil and wood they’re feeding on, subterranean termites create narrow, mud-covered tunnels. These tubes, often no wider than a pencil, can appear along foundation walls, inside crawl spaces, or around basement areas. They help the termites retain moisture and avoid open air exposure.
Wood Damage
Termites eat wood from the inside, often leaving the surface untouched. This damage isn’t always visible, but tapping the area can reveal a hollow sound, and poking it with a tool may expose soft or brittle spots. If you see blistering paint or damaged baseboards, it’s time to investigate further.
Swarmers
If you spot flying termites indoors, it usually means a mature colony is nearby. Swarmers are looking to form new nests, and their appearance inside the house is a strong indication of termite activity within the structure. Outdoor swarms are less urgent but still worth noting.
Discarded Wings
After mating, swarmers drop their wings. You’ll often find small, matching wings near light sources, windows, or stuck in cobwebs. If you notice these around your Kalamazoo property, it’s a good idea to call for an inspection. Matching size and symmetrical shape are key identifiers.
Termite FAQ’s
What makes subterranean termites different from other termites?
Subterranean termites need direct access to soil to survive because they rely on moisture from the ground. Unlike drywood termites that nest inside the wood they eat, subterranean termites create mud tubes to stay hidden and hydrated as they move between their underground nests and food sources.
How can I tell if I have a subterranean termite infestation?
You might notice thin mud trails along your foundation or basement walls, wood that sounds hollow when tapped, or even soft spots that give way under light pressure. Seeing winged termites indoors or discovering piles of identical wings near windows are also major signs of an active infestation.
What are the risks of subterranean termite infestations?
They quietly chew through wooden structures from the inside, weakening everything from floor supports to wall framing. Because they stay hidden, damage often goes unnoticed until repairs become expensive and extensive.
How can I prevent subterranean termite infestations?
Make sure water drains away from your home’s foundation and fix leaks promptly. Avoid letting wooden posts, decks, or siding come in direct contact with soil. Regular inspections and using proven termite control systems are your best defense in Kalamazoo’s termite-prone environment.
Case Study
Uncovering and Resolving a Catastrophic Eastern Subterranean Termite Infestation
This experience was a sobering reminder of the destructive power of termites and the critical role that pest control professionals play in protecting homes, investments, and peace of mind.
Don’t Let Termites Take Over Your Home!
Think you might have termites? Now’s the time to act. Reach out to Pest Pros of Michigan for a detailed inspection and customized treatment plan. Our Kalamazoo-based team knows how to identify termite activity fast and stop it before it spreads. We use proven methods to protect your home and take the stress out of termite control.
From Our Blog
Termites: Michigan’s Not-So-Secret Enemy
There’s a saying in Michigan amongst people in our industry… it goes like this, “you either have termites, have had termites or are going to have termites.”
Why Pest Pros?
- We Get the Job Done Right: Pests hide in the toughest spots. With over 40 years of combined experience, we know where to look and how to tackle the problem.
- Safety & Expertise: We use only high-quality, EPA-approved products and invest in ongoing training for our technicians. Your family’s safety is our priority.
- Guaranteed Results: Our proven Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach eliminates pests and prevents them from returning. If they do, we’ll come back at no additional cost.
If the Pests Come Back, We Come Back
Pest Control Treatment Includes
In Depth Inspection
Our pest specialist will perform a in-depth inspection of your home; we are looking for conducive conditions that pest thrive in. You tech might fight signs of rodent activity, active ant trails, or moisture-related issues.
Preventive Pest Service
Your pest service program will include monitoring stations for pest activity and target applications for pest found. Slow release granular application around your home and a protective spray barrier to stop pest from moving in.
What Pests Want
Yes, we give pests what they want: Food! Our pest specialist carry a variety of food that pests cannot resist, and they know how to carefully apply the right solutions in common nesting spots for effective elimination.
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