March 5-11, 2023 is Termite Awareness Week! Follow along all week to learn more about the destructive nature of these pests. Be sure to check out our website for more information: callreliable.com
Spring is peak season for termites which are one of the most destructive insect species threatening homeowners across the. U.S. These “silent destroyers” eat non-stop and can severely damage the structural stability of homes without anyone even knowing. This Termite Awareness Week, March 5 – 11, Reliable Exterminators and the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) are educating homeowners on the top five tell-tale signs of a termite infestation. Recognized by Chase’s Calendar of Events, this annual observance is the perfect time to arm homeowners with the knowledge that can help them prevent costly termite damage.
“As we head into spring, homes that faced erratic winter weather may be vulnerable to damage and moisture buildup. Termites are experts at finding, and capitalizing, on these weak points. Once inside, termites are a major threat, as their constant chewing can compromise the structural integrity of a home from the inside out,” said Andrea Patrie, President at Reliable Exterminators. “Termites have the ability to chew through wood, flooring and even wallpaper undetected, which is why it is so important to be vigilant about termite inspection and control.”
To protect their property from devastating termite damage, homeowners need to know the telltale signs of an infestation:
- Swarmers: Winged termites that emerge in large numbers in the springtime. Swarmers typically emerge from a colony once it has reached maturity after 4 or 5 years.
- Discarded Wings: Left behind by swarmers and are often found near windowsills and doors and are often the first and only outwardly visible sign of a termite problem.
- Wood Damage: Termites tend to eat wood from the inside out, so wood that sounds hollow when tapped often signifies a termite infestation. Termites bring dirt and mud into damaged wood as they destroy it.
- Frass: Drywood termites produce these wood-colored droppings, usually in a small pile that looks like pellets, as they eat through wood.
- Mud Tubes: Termites build mud shelter tubes near the foundation of a building to provide moisture while they travel between their underground colony and a food source.