Understanding the Risks of Termite Infestation in Chicagoland and Northern Illinois

Termite infestations are a significant concern for homeowners in the suburbs of Chicago and northern Illinois. These destructive pests can cause severe structural damage if not managed properly, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards. Understanding the risks and taking preventive measures are crucial steps in protecting your home from termites in Illinois, and what to do when they strike.

Termite Infestation Probability Maps

Termite Infestation Probability maps are developed by the The USDA Forest Service and Agricultural Research Service (ARS) by integrating data on termite activity across various regions, including climate conditions, historical infestation reports, and environmental factors. These maps serve as a crucial tool for homeowners, illustrating areas with heightened risk for termite infestation. Homeowners can use these maps to assess their property’s susceptibility to termite damage, helping them to take preemptive measures such as regular inspections, soil treatment, and structural maintenance to mitigate potential risks and prevent costly damage to their homes.

While Termites are not as prevalent as they are in warm southern regions like Texas, California, and Florida, Illinois is still affected by numerous Termite infestations every year. Illinois is put at TIP zone #2, which is moderate to heavy risk. Warm and humid summers, particularly around Northern Illinois’s numerous waterways like the Fox River, Illinois River, and more provide the ideal climate for subterranean termites.

Subterranean vs. Drywood Termites in Illinois

Subterranean termites in Illinois

Subterranean termites are the most common species in Illinois, responsible for the vast majority of termite damage. These termites live underground in colonies that can number in the millions. They construct mud tubes for protection as they search for food sources, which often leads them to the wooden structures of homes. They require very specific soil conditions to thrive, which are commonly found near rivers or other bodies of water.

Drywood termites in Illinois

In contrast, drywood termites are very rare in Illinois. Unlike their subterranean counterparts, drywood termites do not require contact with soil and can establish colonies directly within the wood they consume. If you either are a Floridian homeowner and/or an avid watcher of Breaking Bad you might be familiar with the often colorful tents pest control companies use to treat drywood termites with.

Management and Prevention Tips

1. Act Preemptively:

Annual termite inspections or treatments, such as those offered by FVEPC, can greatly reduce the damage and cost of an infestation by catching it early, or better yet, preventing it entirely with a simple termite barrier treatment.

FVEPC also offers termite pre-treatments. To carry out termite pre-treatments, a chemical treatment is applied to the soil under the foundation right before the concrete slab is poured. This is a treatment that is very effective at preventing termite infestations at a fraction of the cost of a treatment for an active infestation.

2. Manage Moisture:

Since subterranean termites are drawn to moisture, it is essential to repair leaks, ensure proper drainage, and maintain humidity levels in your home to make it less inviting to these pests. Ensure that areas around your home are properly drained as well.

3. Look for termite tunnels or signs of damage:

Subterranean termites use mud tunnels to travel, which can be sighted on concrete foundations, and will hollow out wood boards.

4. Remove Wood Debris:

Keep wood piles, mulch, and other cellulose materials away from your home’s foundation to reduce the likelihood of attracting termites.

Fun Facts About Termites

Termite Queens Live Long

The queen of a termite colony can live up to 25 years and lay thousands of eggs daily, making her one of the most reproductive creatures on earth.

Silent Destroyers

Termites can chew through wood, flooring, and even wallpaper undetected, often going unnoticed until significant damage has occurred.

Termites Communicate with Vibrations

These insects use vibrations as a way to communicate with each other within their colonies.

Recycling Role

Termites are crucial in nature for recycling dead and decaying trees, turning them into fertile soil. This unfortunately translates to them targeting the paper in drywall and the wood in the beams of homes.

Termite Soldiers

In some species, soldier termites have unique chemical defenses to protect their colonies from predators.

By understanding the characteristics of termites and implementing effective management strategies, homeowners in the suburbs of Chicago and Northern Illinois can safeguard their properties from the devastating impact of these pests. Regular monitoring and preventive measures are essential to maintaining a termite-free home environment. Call FVEPC right away at 630-513-8120 if you have any termite related concerns. We cover Kane, DuPage, NW Cook County, and surrounding cities.

Frequently asked Questions

Do you have to tent your home to treat Termites in Illinois?

Luckily, no, tenting homes for termite infestations is not necessary here since Subterranean termites are treated

directly underground where there colony. Drywood termites are only found in year-round warm climates like Florida, Texas, California, etc., and require fumigation since the entire home needs to be filled with toxic gasses to kill the termite colony. So you can at least rest easy that your home will not be turned into a very expensive circus tent.

What are the signs of a termite infestation in Illinois?

Common signs include mud tubes on exterior walls, hollow-sounding wood, discarded wings near windows or doors, and damaged wood that appears crumbly or hollowed out.

What types of termites are found in Illinois?

Subterranean termites are the most common type found in Illinois. They live in colonies underground and can cause significant structural damage if left unchecked.

What should I do if I suspect a termite infestation?

If you suspect a termite infestation, contact FVEPC right away for a Termite Inspection service. This is a service we also offer for home sales and refinancing.

Are DIY termite treatments effective?

No! Termites reside deep beneath the ground, requiring significant and thorough subterranean pesticide application. Don’t risk further damage to your home, contact a professional ASAP!