Unfortunately, April is the start of the swarm season again for pesky Drywood termites. It’s imperative to mention that termites are getting ready to expand their colonies. Colonies are getting full and they need a new nesting ground for the next generation. They are searching for fresh lumber to lay their eggs.
Do you see termite activity taking place around your home? If you do, this means that mature colonies are ready to make room for new sub-colonies. Now here’s the bad news. Flying termites can cause significant damage to your home if you fail to take proper action. For instance, they will lay waste to structures from the inside out. They will do this before the new babies emerge.
Let’s take a close look at a few pointers on protecting your home during termite swarming season.
The Real Rundown – Swarmer 101
As we’ve stated earlier, the colony sends out a significant group of adult termites (swarmers) when the colony gets overcrowded. The swarmers will not spare any cost at finding a new place that will suitable for the colony’s future.
Swarmers are adult termites that can fly and search for a new nesting ground for the colony. When they find the ideal home, they will lay hundreds of eggs into the fresh wood. This gives baby termites the golden opportunity to chew on cellulose when they hatch from their eggs. This unique food supply helps the hatchlings get off to a great start.
You may have seen some termites scouting for new territory as they leave the overcrowded nest.
It’s important for you to understand that you may see swarmers, but this does not mean that a nest is nearby. If your neighbors have termites, it’s fair to say that they may be on the hunt for exposed wood. You cannot afford to ignore their potential advance.
Several Tips for Staying Safe during Swarming Season
Swarming season starts in April and ends in December. Depending on the size of the colony, several swarming sessions may take place during this period. Here are a few simple tips that will help you keep your home secure from these aggressive invaders.
Cut Off Their Food Supply
The cellulose in wood is a rich source of food for termites. In layman’s terms, your home will be inviting to termites if you have wood lying around. During each swarming season, swarmers are looking for the following: untreated decks, tree stumps, firewood, twigs, and mulch. All offer a nice place for a new colony. Make certain you keep your property clear of extraneous wood. Routine landscaping will keep your yard in tip top shape.
Eliminate Extra Moisture
Termites cannot survive without water. Make sure your pipes, gutters, and downspouts are in exceptional condition. You should check them out twice a year. Excess moisture and cellulose will entice termites to come to your property.
You will be ahead of the game if you keep water away from your home’s foundation.
Treat Soil before Tackling Major Home Projects
Many homeowners make the grave mistake of failing to treat the soil for termites before installing a new deck or addition. Treating the soil will increase the cost of the home improvement project, but it will help you save a tremendous amount of money in the future. Can you imagine termites ruining your $8,000 outdoor deck?
Know when it’s Time to Contact a Professional
You should never underestimate termites. They are notorious for causing millions of dollars in property damage each year in Texas. In most cases, you will not be able to detect termite damage on your own. You may not be aware that your home has been targeted for a new termite colony. It’s always a good idea to have your home checked out by a seasoned professional.
