Drywood Termites
Termites cost property owners more than $5 billion annually – more than all flood, fire and tornado damage combined. Unlike these disasters, termite damage is not covered by homeowner’s insurance. There is a saying in Florida, there are two types of homes, those with termites and those that will get termites. However, termites are among the most preventable of disasters that could happen to your home or business. TNT provides affordable solutions to prevent or eliminate termites from destroying your biggest investment. All our treatments are compliant with state and EPA requirements.
The first step in termite protection is to properly identify the signs of an infestation. Two of the more common signs are damaged wood, and the presence of winged termites called swarmers. Here in Florida, when the weather is warm, the termites will swarm. If you find winged termites, that is an indicator that there is a colony infesting nearby. Please keep in mind, that in our climate, ants swarm as well. The experts at TNT can determine what type of insects your may have swarming and whether your wood damage is caused by termites, moisture or some other factor. If termites are found, we can provide solutions for both subterranean and drywood termites.
Another serious threat to properties in our area is the drywood termite. As their name suggests, these termites infest wood that has a very low moisture content. Unlike subterranean termites they do not require any contact with the soil to live. Because of this they can seriously damage moveable items such as furniture, books, household decorations, anything containing cellulose material.
In our area, these termites typically swarm late spring and into summer. Drywood termites swarm in the evening and are attracted to light. It is common to find discarded wings in window sills or near lights that are left on overnight. It is also very common to find wings in your attic. This is because drywood termites swarm from nearby trees landing on the edges of your home. They often find easy access through attic vents. Perhaps the most distinguishing characteristic of this termite is the pellets it produces. They can be found scattered or in small piles.
Drywood termite infestations are also known to occur when a property owner unknowingly brings an infested item into their home. Buyer beware when shopping at garage sales or discount stores. Termites living in a piece of furniture, cabinetry or other household item will eventually swarm resulting in infestation of the entire home.
While there can be many alternatives to the control of these termites, the most proven and effective is tent fumigation. We provide these treatments as well as consultation on other methods that may best fit the situation.
