The Pest Control Authority

Termite Control

Knowing the tell-tale signs that indicate termites are in your home is one of the best protective measures against these wood destroying insects.

According to the NPCA, a trade group VA, termites annually cause more damage than fires, storms and earthquakes combined.

As their name implies, they normally live underground, because of their need for moisture, but they emerge to forage for food in nearby wood and to seek new nesting sites. They are most prevalent in the Southeast, but have been found in every state except Alaska.

"Swarming" is the most common tip-off that there are active termites present. Swarm season usually begins in late March and runs through the spring. During this time when the there is high humidity and warm temperatures swarms of winged termites may be observed outside as well as inside. The wings are shed and often found by a nearby window or door. Another sign of activity is mud tubes or tunnels on foundation walls which allow termites to travel back and forth between the structure and the ground.

The key characteristics of termite swarmers are two pair of wings which are virtually the same size, straight antennae, and a broad waist.

Termites rarely break the surface as they feed inside the wood. This can make them difficult to discover by a visual inspection. Probing the wood with a sharp object can help in locating a termite infestation.

You should have your home inspected annually for the presence of these wood destroying insects.