In Malaysia, where the warm and humid climate provides the perfect environment for termites to thrive, these pests pose a significant risk to homes and businesses alike. Known as “silent destroyers,” termites can cause extensive structural damage before their presence is even noticed. This article will guide you through understanding termite types and preventive measures you can take to safeguard your property.
Types of Termites Found Indoors
In Malaysia, two primary types of termites are likely to invade homes: drywood termites and subterranean termites. Each type poses unique threats and requires specific methods for detection and control.
Photo credits : Termites Web
Subterranean Termites (of the genus Coptotermes)
Habitat and Behaviour
Subterranean termites require high moisture levels to survive, making Malaysia’s warm, humid climate ideal for their colonies. Unlike drywood termites, subterranean termites live in the soil and build elaborate underground nests that can house millions of termites. They construct mud tubes, or shelter tubes, from the ground up to wood structures. These tubes protect them from open air and provide a pathway to reach wood sources without drying out.
Subterranean termites are aggressive foragers, tunneling through wood and other cellulose materials as they search for food. Because they live underground, they can spread extensively without being noticed until they’ve caused severe damage. They prefer softer, moisture-compromised wood but will consume almost any cellulose material they encounter, including foundations, support beams, and even flooring, which makes them especially dangerous for Malaysian buildings.
Photo Credits : Termites Web
Drywood Termites (of the genus Cryptotermes)
Habitat and Behaviour
Unlike subterranean termites, Cryptotermes drywood termites do not require soil or high moisture to survive. Instead, they infest dry, undecayed wood and are often found in furniture, structural beams, door frames, and other woodwork within buildings. They typically enter through small cracks, exposed wood surfaces, or areas where wood connects to other structures, creating colonies directly inside the wood they consume.
Once inside, these termites form colonies that may take years to grow but can be quite destructive over time. Since they live entirely within the wood, their presence is often hard to detect until there is visible damage or swarming, when winged termites (alates) emerge to start new colonies. Their hidden nature allows them to tunnel through wood undetected, causing internal weakening that can lead to structural issues.
When to Call Professional Pest Control
Termites are challenging to eradicate with DIY methods, particularly due to their hidden habitats and colony sizes. Professional pest control services offered by PestClean, can identify termite species, locate colonies, and provide targeted treatments, such as soil treatments for subterranean termites or wood injection and fumigation for drywood termites. With specialized equipment and expertise, PestClean can protect your property from termites and help you avoid costly damage.
Conclusion
Termites are a serious risk to homes and buildings in Malaysia. Recognizing the warning signs and implementing preventive measures can go a long way in protecting your property. However, because of the complexity of termite infestations, working with a trusted pest control provider like PestClean ensures effective, professional control and peace of mind. Contact PestClean today to schedule an inspection and secure your property against termite threats.
