What Are Termites Swarmers
Every termite colony can only support so many members. This is dependent on a few things such as nest capacity and available food sources nearby. When a termite colony reaches max capacity or becomes fully mature, it will then begin to produce termite swarmers. What are termites swarmers? Termite swarmers are winged reproductive termites. What do they do? They are colonizers tasked with flying out and finding new places to build a nest. One thing you should know about these flying wood eaters is that they are pretty lousy flyers. That being said, if swarmers are found near your home, chances are their colony is not too far away.
How Much Damage Termites Can Do
Once termite swarmers have found a home to infest, and have established a colony nearby, damage is only a natural thing to follow. What many people do not know about termites is that their damage doesn’t happen quickly, but oftentimes over the course of many years. Due to how quietly and undetected termites eat away at homes, infestations can go unnoticed for several years. It isn’t until signs of termite damage such as tight-fitting doors and windows, dipping ceilings, bubbling wallpaper and or paint, and other major structural problems arise that infestations are discovered. Trust us when we tell you, this is not how you want to discover termite problems in your Richmond home.
Swarmers Are The First Sign Of A Problem
If you are seeing termite swarmers around your home, do not ignore them as they are the best way for you to know if an infestation is presently damaging your property. Where you spot termite swarmers is also important. If you find these winged pests outside of your home, it is only an indication that there is a fully mature colony nearby. It is only when swarmers are found inside that you can assume termite infestation is currently damaging your home. Either way, we recommend you have your home inspected, this will determine for certain whether your home is currently at risk or already infested.
Some Prevention Tips For Termites
If your home is not currently under attack by termites, there are a few things you can do to deter termites from settling down. Here are some prevention tips we recommend.
- Fix leaks throughout your home.
- Seal up gaps and cracks in your home’s exterior foundation.
- Make sure your gutters are in good working order.
- Fix or replace water damaged structural wood around your home.
- Store lumber and firewood at least 30 feet from your home's exterior.
- Avoid using wood-based mulch products on your property.
- Make sure your home has a non-wood barrier between exterior soil and structural wood.
What To Do If You Suspect Your Home Has Termites
If you suspect your home is currently dealing with a termite problem or would like to invest in extra protection to make sure termites stay away, we have options for you here at Pestmaster® Services. Our team of dedicated professionals has been treating for termites for a long time and would be happy to put their experience to use in defending your home.
Give us a call today for more information about our termite control or to schedule a treatment for your Richmond home.