Spring is the season of growth and rejuvenation; unfortunately, it also marks the start of termite swarming season. Termites are highly destructive bugs that, if unchecked, can seriously damage your house. It is critical to comprehend why termites swarm in Long Island, New York, and how to keep them out of your home.
Termites can often go unnoticed until they cause significant damage to your home. The National Property Management Association (NPMA) says they cause over $5 billion in property damage annually. For this reason, homeowners should be aware of the signs of a termite infestation. A professional exterminator like Arrow Exterminating can eliminate the infestation before significant damage occurs.
Why Do Termites Swarm?
Termites swarm to find a mate and start a new colony. The process begins when a mature colony produces winged termites called alates. These termites fly off to mate and establish a new colony. Swarming usually happens after a rainstorm in the spring when it is warm and humid outside.
Which Termites Swarm?
Among the various types of termites that can infest your home, eastern subterranean termites are the most common type to swarm in Long Island, NY. These termites are common in wet environments like crawl spaces and basements since they are soil-dwelling bugs. They build mud tubes to travel from the soil to the wood in your home, where they feed on the cellulose.
The eastern subterranean termite, also known as Reticulitermes flavipes, is responsible for 80% of all termite damage in the United States, according to a study by the University of Georgia. With distinct creamy white bodies and brownish heads, they typically swarm in the springtime, usually in March, April, and May.
Signs of a Termite Swarm
There are vital signs to look out for indicating a termite swarm. The first sign is the presence of termite wings, shed after they mate. You may find them near windows, doors, or other entry points. Another sign is the presence of mud tubes on your home’s foundation or crawling up the walls.
Preventing Termites
Preventing termites from getting into your home is crucial to avoiding costly damage. Here are some recommendations to aid in termite prevention:
- Reduce Moisture: Because termites prefer moist settings, lowering the moisture levels near your property is crucial. Fix leaky pipes, regularly clean gutters, and ensure the soil around your home’s foundation slopes away.
- Remove Wood Debris: Wood attracts termites. So, remove any wood debris from your yard and keep firewood away from your home.
- Seal Entry Points: Seal any cracks or openings around your foundation, windows, and doors to prevent termites from entering.
- Schedule Regular Inspections: Schedule routine inspections with a professional exterminator to detect any signs of termite activity early on.
Call a Professional Exterminator
Calling a qualified exterminator when you detect a termite swarm or infestation in your house is crucial. Arrow Exterminating Company, Inc. provides termite control services in Long Island, NY. Our trained exterminators use the latest equipment and techniques to detect and eliminate termite colonies, and we back our services with a satisfaction guarantee.
Do not let termites damage your home. Contact Arrow Exterminating Company, Inc. today for a free inspection and estimate.
