There are currently three species of termite in the state: eastern woodworms, Formosan woodworms, and the southern drywood termite. All of these termite species attack houses and other buildings and their distribution range across the state. Each species has different characteristics, however, so knowing them and how they look like can help you determine which type you have. This is what we will discuss in this article.
The most common way to detect drywood termite infestation is through the tell-tale staining on your belongings and the damage to your home. Most homeowners experience some degree of discoloration on their wood, but often it is the southern type that appears most disturbing. Discoloration can appear in almost any surface exposed to moisture – including walls, ceilings, baseboards, insulation, and sub-flooring. In older structures, you might notice a greenish or brownish tint on basement walls and concrete, while in newer homes the staining tends to be more uniform. If you notice discoloration on your basement walls, concrete flooring, or ceilings, there’s a good chance you have Eastern Wood-Worm Termites.
The Southeastern Drywood Termites is actually a sub-species of Formosan subterranean termite, which is also found throughout the state. They are also easier to recognize because they have a distinguishing dark color, much like a spotted deer’s antlers. Although Southeastern Drywood Termites tends to do well in the southern states where they live, there are no records of them living in the north. Formosan subterranean termite can infest soil in all four corners of its range. That is why it is important to have a professional inspection done on your house if you find signs of the swarm.
A professional pest inspection company should be called when you suspect an infestation. To avoid unnecessary suffering from insecticide and non-chemical-based treatment, it is best to call a company that uses equipment that allows for the precise identification of each individual termite. This allows for prompt treatment. Also, a company that specializes in termite inspection can tell if certain areas of the home are infested or not. This knowledge can allow for the proper treatment of the area. Professional companies can also give homeowners advice on how to deal with termite infestations.
Infestations of this type usually takes several years to develop and spread. A colony of these insects must gather food, make nests, and raise eggs in order to become a full-grown colony. A full-grown colony of Southeastern Drywood Termites takes about three years to create. If a termite infestation is recognized early on, it is usually easier to treat the entire infestation rather than treating individual colonies of the termite.
When there is a suspected termite infestation, homeowners should check around the outside of the house. Often, signs of an infestation are revealed when the colony’s members appear agitated and begin to swarm. Swarms of termite can sometimes be found along the foundation of a house. The appearance of the colony indicates that food is being distributed to the swarm. Once swarming appears, the termites take up residence in the soil close to the surface of the ground.
Look for signs of infestation such as dried mud, sawdust, or sawdust with holes in it. If you see termite damage on the outside of your house, it may also mean that the infestation has occurred on the inside. Sometimes, the dry mud found on the exterior of a house points to an active infestation where the mud cracks from being in contact with soil for too long.
To detect termite infestations, homeowners should inspect the surrounding area closely. Inspections of the ground should be done both above and below the house. Floorboards should also be inspected. If there is evidence of termite infestation, then homeowners should seek advice from pest control experts. Pest controllers will be able to provide homeowners with information on how to address the infestation, including possible treatments for infestation and prevention of further termite colonies. The Pest Control Association of America offers classes and tips on dealing with termite colonies.
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