Termites are common pests of our Aiken, SC homes and structures, but you may be unaware of the damage they can cause. They are silent wood-destroying pests attracted to the cellulose found in wood, moisture, and warmth. If your home can supply all of these things, you could be in danger of an infestation.
Termites are small insects that can be found in many parts of the world and are considered to be the most destructive wood-boring pest. Termites are social insects, which means they live in colonies with reproductive members, soldiers, and workers. Termites pose no direct threat to humans, but indirectly they are far worse. Think damage with a price tag of millions of dollars. Termites cause damage by eating wood which can lead to serious structural damage as well as problems like mold growth.
Why Is It Hard To Spot Termite Problems On Your Aiken, SC Property?
Termite nests and colonies can be large. Colonies mature in 2-4 years, after which the cycle repeats. The queen termite can lay thousands of eggs each day, and termites can live for a long time.
Termites consume wood from the inside out. The termite colony is often located in inaccessible places like under porches or basements. The reason is that these places are isolated from sunlight, warmth, and ventilation; this makes them ideal colony sites. It also means that termite colonies can grow for a long period unnoticed.
Once inside the wood, the termites use their mandibles to chew through weaker parts. They work together working 24/7 without rest to tunnel into the wood, eating as they go. The reproductive members of the colony, or swarmers, will emerge once a year to begin a new colony but otherwise, termites stay completely inside their food source. Even in the case of an advanced infestation, aside from a swarmer, you are unlikely to see an actual termite.
Signs Of Termite Activity To Look Out For
If you suspect but are not sure of a termite infestation in your Aiken, South Carolina property, look for the following signs of termites:
- Tight-fitting doors and windows
- Spotting swarmers or shed wings on the property
- Termite droppings, called frass, that looks like sawdust pellets
- Tunnels (known as galleries) where termites live and eat
- Mud tubes, used for termites to travel above ground without being exposed to the sun
- Damage to nearby wood or plant stalks, including dead branches or vines
- Look for damaged wood framing or walls
- Damage to insulation; and sagging of roof areas
- Discoloration or blistering of paint
- Loose or buckling floorboards
By the time signs of termites are apparent, often there is already significant damage. If you are noticing these or other signs of termites, there is no time to waste.
The Solution To Termites In Aiken
It is recommended that Aiken homeowners contact an experienced inspector every year to identify any signs of termite activity and address them immediately if they are apparent. But if you find signs of termites on your property - don't wait. Call the professionals at Aiken Pest Control right away. Our expert technicians can seek out hidden colonies in your home and eliminate them with advanced methods and help you put a plan in place to eliminate future risks.
Call today to find out more about our termite control options.