Signs of a Termite Swarm

While many states in our country are threatened by more cold weather and snow, we have a different kind of threat in the Southeast – termites. Mid-February to early May marks Subterranean termite swarm season. Now is the time to be vigilant against a pest that causes $5 billion in property damage each year.

Below are a few recommendations to detect signs termites may have infested your home:

• Check around window panes and door thresholds. If you find discarded termite wings in your home, it’s a possible sign you have an infestation.
• Look for mud tubes along the foundation of your home. Termites prefer dark, moist conditions, so they construct mud tubes from the earth as they make their way into the interior of your home. Once they gain access, they eat away at the structural composition and contents of your home.
• Look for small sized exit holes in drywall. When reproductive termites swarm, they often create small exit holes to fly out of. As they emerge from the walls in the home, they fly toward light sources such as windows, doors or skylights.
• Finally, if you notice any soft spots in your molding and trim, baseboards or window sills, it’s a good possibility Subterranean termites have invaded your home.

“Subterranean termite swarms begin to occur during the spring. This is when winged termites leave their colony to go on mating flights to establish new colonies,” explains Ed Blumenthal, Technical and Training Director in Termite Protection at Massey Services. “It is important for homeowners to recognize the signs of a swarm so they can seek the help of a professional.”

If you see these signs in your home or want to protect your home from termites, CLICK HERE to contact us to schedule a free, no obligation termite inspection.