All About Termites
Termites are insects that feed on wood and decaying organic material… including houses. Now’s a good time to schedule a free termite inspection with us, to make sure your home is safe! Spring/early summer is when termites are most active, although they’re a year-round problem. They start with the inner parts of a structure, so by the time many people notice them, there’s already costly damage.
According to the National Pest Management Association, termites cause around $6.8 billion in damage every year in the U.S. Unfortunately, most homeowners’ insurance doesn’t cover termite damage, considering it preventable through with maintenance. This is why it’s crucial to get your home inspected at least once a year if you live in Louisiana.
Termite Infestation Risk Map
This is a termite infestation risk map of the United States. Termites thrive in warm, humid climates. This means that homes in Louisiana have a very high risk of termite infestations. We recommend yearly inspections to every homeowner to protect your biggest investment.
Map courtesy of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL)
Termite Swarmers
The winged ones may look like large flies or another type of bug, but they’re termite swarmers (aka reproducing termites). If you see them, it means there’s a mature termite colony somewhere nearby, and they’re out looking for food. If you see their bodies or discarded wings on your floors or around your windows, it’s a sign of a termite infestation.
Worker Termites
Termites without wings (worker termites) can look like cream-colored or brown ants and are good at blending in with wood.
Termite Mud Tubes
One warning sign is mud tubes, which look exactly how they sound. Termites use these to travel from their colony to the wood they’re eating.
Termite Baits
Termite bait stations are canisters installed in the ground with bait inside and tiny holes in the sides that termites can get in through. They eat the bait and take it back to the rest of the colony, which slowly poisons the termites and kills them.
Termite Damage
Termite damage can look differently depending on how long they’ve been feeding. Blistering/damaged wood or bubbling paint could be caused by termites, although water damage or other issues can be mistaken for termites as well. A pest tech can confirm if the damage is caused by termites.