Termites are a common problem for many homeowners, and one of the most alarming signs of a termite infestation is a termite swarm. During a termite swarm, winged termites, also known as alates, take flight from their colony in search of a new location to start a new colony.
Subterranean Termites
Subterranean Termites can tirelessly attack your home 24/7 causing dangerous and costly structural damage if left undetected.
Subterranean termites tunnel their way through wooden members, such as timbers in the structure of a house, as they search for and consume cellulose, the material found in the plant cells of wood. As a rule, Subterranean termites travel above ground for food (cellulose) and underground for moisture.
What should I watch out for?
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Mud tunnels - A termite mud tunnel found between the soil and wood construction of your home is a sign of infestation. They are most likely to attack from beneath the structure, gaining access through the smallest cracks and imperfections in the foundation.
Formosan Termites
Formosan Termites are a species of subterranean termite and one of the most aggressive and destructive termites in the world.
Often referred to as the “Super Termite,” Formosans cause extensive structural damage to your home by eating through wood at rapid rates. A Formosan termite colony can contain as many as eight million members and span 3,000 feet.
What should I watch out for?
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Mud tunnels - Formosan termites may create mud tunnels above the surface to avoid exposure to light. These termites generally live underground and tunnel through the soil in search of food.
Drywood Termites
Drywood Termites construct a virtual city within the wood. They carve out galleries in wood beams and use tunnels to move from place to place. They also swarm annually to start new colonies.
What should I watch out for?
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Attic and eave areas - These are prime targets for swarmers in search of a nesting location, as are windowsills, baseboards, beams and door frames.
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Cracks in wood - TA swarming termite can enter a structure by penetrating the smallest crack of imperfection in the wood.
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Furniture and other materials - Drywood termites can also be introduced into an environment through infested furniture or construction materials.
Dampwood Termites
Dampwood Termites infest wood with high moisture content, creating tunnels while eating across the grain of the wood.
What should I watch out for?
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Vulnerable wood - Wood in contact with the ground or with a high moisture content is vulnerable to attack.
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Logs, stumps, dead trees, leaky pipes or gutters - These can also provide favorable conditions for Dampwood termites.
Don't Wait for Signs of Damage - Contact Truly Nolen for a Termite Inspection Today!
If you suspect a termite infestation in your home, it's important to act quickly. A termite swarm is a clear indication that there is an active colony in or around your property. Don't wait for the damage to get worse, contact Truly Nolen today for a termite inspection. With 80 years of experience, our experts will provide the best solution to protect your home and property. Don't let termites take over, contact Truly Nolen today!