Glad that you asked that question because we are now in the middle of termite swarm season!
As the weather begins to warm up in spring and after rain showers, subterranean termites “swarm” a new area as a group of termites looking to start their own, new colony.
Most subterranean termites species swarm during spring and summer months Drywood termites and one particular species of subterranean termite (R. hageni) typically swarm during the late summer or fall months, from August through November.
Drywood vs. subterranean termites
If you are wondering what the differences are between a drywood and subterranean termite? The main difference is that subterranean termites reside inside the ground, while drywood termites nest inside the wood they are infesting. Either type of termite can spell disaster in your home or on your property.
Swarm activity
A termite swarm will typically last around 30-40 minutes, and the swarm of termites will fly into a light source. They collect around windows and sliding glass doors. This swarm of termites will die within a few hours from dehydration if they cannot find soil. If the termites locate a place to live, they move, eat, and expand their colony.
Termite damage
The damage termites can cause is enormous. A typical colony consists of about 50,000 workers. This colony eats a 2 x 4 12-inch long piece of wood in approximately 8 – 9 weeks. If you do not locate and treat a termite-infested home, a home can be destroyed in 10 to 15 years.
Insurance coverage
Unfortunately, termite damage or removal is NOT normally covered under the average homeowner’s insurance policy. Homeowners are responsible for routine home maintenance. Termite infestations can typically be prevented if you have regular maintenance in place. Check your policy or call your insurance agent to find out if you are covered against termite damage.
Signs of infestation
There are some obvious signs of termite infestation. If in doubt, make sure to contact a professional pest control company to do an inspection?
- Look at wood floors for blisters
- Inspect wood throughout the home for hollowed or damaged wood – walls, floors, etc. Termites can hide before the surfaces
- Drywood Termite Droppings which look like mounds of pellets, sawdust or coffee grounds
- Mud tubes
- Termite wings near windows, door, and access points
Maintenance plan
One of the best ways to control termites is to have a regular maintenance plan in place with a local Pest and Lawn Service so you can prevent termite damage from ever happening on your property, in your home or business.
Please let our team of professionals help you. Don’t spend your valuable time dealing with things that we can handle for you. If you’re in any of the surrounding areas, give Proactive Pest Control a call at 770-800-PEST or 770-800-7378.
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Choose Proactive Pest Control for professional, comprehensive, guaranteed pest and lawn management. The pros at Proactive will work diligently to gain your trust, confidence, and your total satisfaction. CALL US TODAY at 770-800-PEST to schedule a free, no obligation inspection and evaluation for your home or business. Or, contact us for a FREE consultation. Let us show you why Proactive Pest Control is northeast Georgia’s first choice for pest, termite, and lawn services.