Tackle Termites Now

One of the biggest threats to your home may be one of the hardest to detect: termites. According to the National Pest Management Association, termites cause $5 billion in property damage each year.

At this time of year, homeowners in warm weather states should start keeping an eye out for the appearance of these prevalent pests. Termites can emerge in a large swarm as early as February and into spring, and this cloud of pests may be the first tip-off to an infestation.

Here’s what to know about termites—and what to do if you spot a problem.

• U.S. homeowners battle three primary types of termites: dampwood pests that thrive in moist, heavily wooded areas; drywood termites that prefer very dry wood; and subterranean termites— the most damaging—that make their home in the soil.

• The Formosan termite is common in the Southeast, as well as Texas, California and Hawaii. This is the most destructive subterranean termite in the U.S.; the U.S.D.A. estimates homeowners spend $1 billion each year to repair damage caused by this species. These termites can live above ground as well as in the soil, building their nests in walls and attics.

• In addition to a swarm, you might consider an infestation if there are soft spots in your wood, if you spot “mud tubes” in or outside your house, or if wood shows signs of blistering.

• To help deter termites, keep moisture diverted away from your home’s foundation. Inspect and possibly remove railroad ties used in landscaping, and dig up old stumps and roots that are near your foundation. Reduce your home’s humidity, particularly in crawl spaces, with proper ventilation.

If you suspect a problem—or just want to head off the possibility—contact a professional pest management service. An inspector may advise you to: adjust the grading near your home to redirect water from your house, cover wood/ground contacts such as deck posts or porch supports, or seal entry points where gas or water lines enter the home. A treatment applied to the soil is often used to mitigate a subterranean termite problem; fumigation may be used for other types of termites.

More information about termites can be found from the USDA. 

The information in this article was obtained from various sources. While we believe it to be reliable and accurate, we do not warrant the accuracy or reliability of the information.

These suggestions are not a complete list of every loss control measure. The information is not intended to replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. Nor is it intended to effect coverage under any policy. State Farm makes no guarantees of results from use of this information. We assume no liability in connection with the information nor the suggestions made.