Exterminators often receive more calls about termites than any other household insect. Subterranean termite are serious pests, whose control is best left to the professionals. Termites and termite management services can be confusing and there are more options available today than ever before.

Termites cause billions of dollars in damage each year. They primarily feed on wood, but also damage paper, books, insulation and even swimming pool liners and filtration systems. Termites can injure living trees and shrubs. Termites are of particular importance when buying or selling a home, since a termite inspection/infestation report is normally a condition of the sale.

Termites

Spring is typically when large numbers of winged termites, also known as “swarmers” emerge inside homes, a sure sign that the building is infested. Termites swarm to disperse and start new colonies. Triggered by warmer temperatures and rainfall. People often confuse winged termites with ants, which often swarm at the same time of year. Termites can be differentiated by their straight antennae and forewings that are longer than the hind wings. Swarmers are attracted by light and are often seen around windows and doors. Termite swarmers emerging from tree stumps or other locations out in the yard are not necessarily cause for concern and does not mean the house is infested. On the other hand, if winged termites are seen emerging from the base of a foundation wall or adjoining porches and patios, there is a good chance the house is infested also and treatment may be warranted.

Often there will be no visible indication that the home is infested and can go undetected for years, hidden behind the walls, floor coverings and insulations. Termite feeding and damage can even progress undetected in wood that is exposed because the outer surface is usually left intact. Confirmation of infestation often requires the keen eye of an experienced termite inspector.

Ridding a home or business of termites requires special skills. A knowledge of building construction is needed to identify critical areas where termites are likely to enter. Many of these points of entry are hidden and difficult to access. Typical treatment may involve liquid pesticide, known as termiticide, injected into the ground alongside the foundation, beneath concrete slabs and within foundation walls. This treatment provides a long-lasting chemical barrier that excludes termites in the ground from entering the building. The termites in the structure die off, since they cannot return to the soil where colonies live.

Termiticides are tested extensively for adverse effects on health. Before a product can be used, numerous studies are conducted by the manufacturer and independently evaluated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Registered termiticides pose no significant hazard to humans, pets or the environment when applied correctly. Despite the negligible health risk from a properly performed termite treatment, people with concerns should consult their physician.