The elusive termite swarm. You have to be in the right place at the right time to see one, and if you do, you know you have a serious problem. Termite swarms represent the predominant signs of a termite infestation for homeowners. They are attracted to lights and will typically be spotted near light fixtures, windows, doors, and vents. Termites cause an estimated $5 billion in property damages annually, and these swarms are just the beginning of a huge problem for Bay Area homeowners.
What Are Termite Swarms?
A termite swarm is exactly what it sounds like. Termites will begin to swarm once a colony becomes too large and it’s time to break away. The swarming termites, or alates, leave their nests when conditions are right. They take flight and pair up with mates, and once they’ve secured their new home, usually in moist soil in direct contact with wood, they will shed their wings and start populating a new nest. These swarms are the most visible sign of a termite infestation for homeowners.
There are three common termite subgroups in the Bay Area and they all swarm at varying times throughout the year. Subterranean termites usually swarm during daylight hours in the spring.
Dampwood termites swarm in the summer, and drywood termites wait until late summer or early fall to break away and recolonize. The conditions in which they swarm are the same across the termite populations, usually the day following a rainstorm when soil is damp, skies are overcast, and winds are under 6mph.
Termite Prevention Tips
More than 4 million homes across the United States will be infested with termites this year. This will cause financial hardship and physical damage to properties. What's even worse is that termite damage typically isn't covered by homeowner's insurance. Therefore, it is so very important to protect your home from these pests by following a few simple prevention tips.
Reduce soil-to-wood contact: Termites create their nests in moist soil with direct wood contact. The wood is their food source, so it is vital for their survival. Try keeping all wooden structures, including firewood, on your property from touching soil to keep termites out.
Keep moisture and humidity levels low: It's important to keep your home well ventilated and as dry as possible, especially in crawl spaces to make your home less enticing to termites.
Turn off exterior lights: Keep your exterior lights off as much as possible in the evenings. Termite swarms are attracted to the light, and as we’ve talked about above, we do not want those swarms anywhere near our homes.
Following these tips will help reduce your risk of termite infestation. If you still find signs of termite activity on your property, or you are worried about a possible infestation, do not hesitate to seek professional help.
How Bay Pest Solution Can Help Protect Your Bay Area Home
We have been doing our part to protect Bay Area, CA homes for more than 40 years. We take pride in providing expert pest control to our customers, and we treat each one like family. If you are experiencing signs of termite activity on your property or would like to prevent an infestation, Bay Pest Solution can help. We have a comprehensive termite control program that is guaranteed to protect your home.
If you would like more information about how Bay Pest Solutions can help defend your Bay Area, CA home from all manner of pests, contact us today!