Here’s what to know about upcoming termite swarming season
As the seasons begin to change in Texas, homeowners can expect to see swarms of termites around their homes. But, with a few steps aimed at prevention, consumers can protect their property from the detritophagous eusocial insects.
1. Homeowners often confuse termites with ants, other insects
It’s not uncommon for some to mistake termites with ants. But, the two insects couldn’t be more different. For those trying to distinguish the two, termites have wings almost equal in length with their straight antennas that may droop. However, ants have front wings longer than their hind wings and its antenna’s bent at a 90-degree angle. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, there are three types of termites in the U.S.: native subterranean, drywood and Formosan.
2. Termites swarm to either breed or start a colony
Pest experts say termites swarm in different seasons based on the subgroup. For example, subterranean termites usually swarm in the spring and during daylight while drywood termites wait until the late summer or early fall. Dampwood termites swarm in the summer. Once the termites’ colony has reached a specific capacity level and wants to expand, termites will swarm.
The swarmers, also called alates include male and female insects with the intention of both reproduction and growth. Until it’s the right time for the swarmers to take flight, they will live in soil close to the surface of their nest. At the ideal time, the swarmers will take flight and pair off, allowing the couples to shed their wings, mate and ultimately find a new nest to populate. This occurs usually once a year.
3. Preventing termite infestations starts during construction and doesn’t end
The EPA encourages consumers to use a concrete foundation during the construction phase, adding it’s important to leave a ventilation space between the wood and soil. Recommendations also insist on covering exposed wood surfaces with either a sealant or metal barrier. Other tips to consider after construction include keeping the soil around the foundation dry with the help of proper grading and drainage.
By filling in cracks in the cement’s foundation, homeowners reduce termites’ ability to access openings in the structure. Additionally, officials warn homeowners to fix leaks as soon as possible, to not pile or store firewood or wood debris close to the home, keep vents clear from blockage and to make sure trees and shrubs don’t get planted too close to the residence nor let them grow against exposed wood surfaces. Lastly, EPA officials suggest checking around the home occasionally to make sure termite colonies do not form.
4. Homeowners can use multiple treatments to rid the home of termites
Whether one wants a chemical or non-chemical approach to keeping termites out of their homes, there are multiple options to consider. Building a physical barrier during the construction phase with materials such as steel mesh or various size sands have been proven effective, according to the EPA. Although using a termiticide application remains an option, only a pest management professional can apply the treatment. Approved treatments by the EPA include liquid soil-applied termiticides, termite baits, building materials impregnated with termiticides and wood treatments. Per the EPA, the soil-applied barrier treatment has been the most common technique for getting rid of termites.