Many people do not realize that termites are one of the most destructive forces on the planet. Did you know that termites cause more property damage each year than home fires? In fact, the National Pest Management Association reports that termites cause $5 billion in property damage each year.
It is not uncommon to spot a few termites on a window sill or in other places around your home. Should this be a cause for concern?
Read on to learn what you should do if you see a few termites. Explore topics such as the early warning signs of termites and when do I need to worry about termites.
How Soon Should I Worry About Termites?
We receive many calls from homeowners who are concerned to find a few termite swarmers. Termites are always looking to reproduce and expand their colony. This is the mission of termite swarmers; a winged pest that is responsible for reproduction.
It is very common to find a few termite swarmers in and around doors and windows. This does not necessarily mean that you have an infestation on your hands.
Termite swarmers are so small that they are at the mercy of the wind. The wind can blow termites toward your home.
However, the mating place for termite swarmers is preferably wood. They like to settle down in firewood, fencing, exterior sheds, and other wood structures. Without a suitable environment to reproduce in, termite swarmers get dehydrated and die.
When Do I Need to Worry About Termites?
Seeing a few termites is not necessarily a cause for concern. If this number grows to 50 or 100 termites then the wind is probably not the culprit. This is especially true if you are keeping windows shut and still finding signs of termites.
The presence of termite swarmers or their discarded wings is an obvious sign. Finding mud tubes from the ground level up into your home is another clear indication. Mud tubes are used by Eastern Subterranean termites to travel from their home to a food source.
You will not find any termite droppings in Maryland and Virginia. Eastern Subterranean termites use their droppings to create these mud tubes.
There are less obvious signs that you can look for. Soft spots in and around windows are a good example. If you can push in sheetrock or crush trim around doors or windows, there is likely a pest infestation.
Small pinholes are another sign as the termites eat through the paint. You may see bubbling paint as the surface underneath is completely eroded.
Dented or sunken areas in your home are other significant signs. All of these signs indicate professional service is required.
Your Guide If You See a Few Termites
You now have some basic knowledge of termites and the early warning signs. If you find a few termites in your home, there is no reason to panic just yet.
The best thing you can do is contact your local termite service company to inspect the property. If you see a few termites and want to get them checked out, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
If you live in Southern Maryland, or Northern Virginia and need help please call us now or visit our website here.
