Many homeowners will see swarming insects flying around their property inside or out and immediately think they are termites. Actually, it is possible that they can be ant swarmers. These two insects look very much alike until you look closer. See the picture to the left to see the difference in the two insects. We understand not everyone has that good of eye sight, and some just don’t care to get that close…So call the professionals at D & D Pest Control and let us tell you what you have and what the best course of action would be.

 

Termites

 

Subterranean termites are the most destructive pests of wood in the United States. They cause over a billion dollars in property damage every year. That is more damage than fire and wind storms combined cause. As their name implies, they normally live underground because of their need for moisture, however they will emerge to forage for food and seek new nesting sites. Problems occur when termites attack wood structures like homes, businesses and warehouses. Their presence is not readily noticed because they hide their activity behind wood areas such as wallboards, siding, wood trim, baseboards, sheet rock, wood flooring, etc.

 

Every year we receive calls from homeowners that are concerned that they have termites swarming. This normally happens in the spring when the temperature is getting warmer and there is more humidity. The termite swarmer or reproductive (pictured above left) does not cause damage to the wood. Their purpose is to start new colonies. The worker termite (pictured above right) is the one that actually damages the wood. Another sign of termite activity is mud tubes or tunnels on foundation walls which allow termites to travel back and forth between the structure and the ground. Termites need to stay in contact with the soil in order to survive. It is important for homeowners to know the more common visible signs of termite infestation. However, structures can become infested at any time with no visible signs. It is important to have your home inspected by a professional, especially if you are buying or selling for your own financial protection-not to mention just the thought of termites silently feasting on one’s largest investment!

D & D Pest Control provides professional, thorough inspections along with Georgia or South Carolina’s Official Wood Infestation Report if needed. We do not have sales people that will try to sell you more than you need. Because we are a family owned and operated company, your satisfaction and our reputation is most important!