Dealing with termites is a reality for anyone living in South Florida. These termites can also cause significant damage to homes and businesses. Sometimes these infestations go unnoticed until the damage is already done, resulting in costly repairs. Learning tips on preventing termite damage and understanding the different risks of these pests is essential to staying proactive against these insects.
What is a Termite Swarm?
A termite swarm happens whenever many of these pests fly together while looking for a new location to build their colony. These termites are often grouped into several hundred or thousands during these swarms. Termite swarms can usually last from 30 to 40 minutes, as you will often see them near porch lights, windows, or glass doors. Always double-checking your entryways and covering small openings in your home is key to preventing these termites from entering your house.
When is Termite Season?
Florida is home to several different types of termites. A few of the most common ones include dry wood termites and subterranean termites. Different species of termites will also swarm at various times of the year in Florida. Some of these termites prefer the rainy season in Florida and the high humidity levels. Typically, you will notice a termite swarm in early March, and these swarms will often continue throughout the summer months. Of course, other termites swarm at different times of the year.
Here is an overview of some of the most common termites in Florida:
Dark Southeastern Subterranean Termites
These dark-colored subterranean termites are native to Florida, and you will often notice their massive swarms on warm sunny days. While these termites begin to swarm from Mid-October to June, you will often notice them the most between March and May.
Eastern Subteranean Termites
The eastern subterranean termite is another native species in Florida. Typically, their termite swarms begin in November and last through May, but they are especially active between January and April. You will often see these dark-colored termites swarm during the day, and they will usually shed their wings near windows.
Formosan Subterranean Termites
Formosan subterranean termites are considered an invasive species, as they are not native to Florida. Unfortunately, these giant yellow termites have established themselves relatively quickly, as you can often find them swarming between March and July. Many in the pest control industry consider these the most destructive termites for homeowners.
Light Southeastern Subterranean Termites
These termites are considered much rarer, and they aren’t as big of a threat to structures. These termite swarms usually range from November to March, as they are especially prevalent between December and February. Sometimes these termites are misidentified as dry wood termites due to their similar appearance.
West-Indian Powderpost Drywood Termites
This type of termite is one of the most common dry wood termites that creates problems for homes in Florida. These termites are caramel-colored with iridescent wings, as they often swarm at night. You will typically see these swarms between March and August, but it’s also possible to see them at other times of the year. It’s always a good idea to reach out to pest control if you notice them.
Signs Of Termite Damage
Understanding the signs of termite damage is key to staying proactive against these pests. Signs of termite damage may include windows or doors that are harder to close, discarded wings, or mud tubes. You may even notice termite damage underneath paint or wallpaper due to the tiny pinholes they create while feeding on the wood. Seeing termite droppings is another common sign that you are dealing with an infestation.
How to Handle Termite Damage?
Reaching out to pest control services as soon as possible is key to limiting these problems. You may also need to contact a building contractor to repair termite damage or even provide wood restoration services. Using these professionals for termite damage repair is key to preventing these problems from worsening over time. Staying proactive by scheduling annual inspections is another effective option for identifying the signs of termite damage before it’s too late.
Closing Thoughts
Termites are a major issue for anyone living in Florida. These termites can damage your home before you even realize it. Keeping a close watch for termite swarms while looking for any signs of damage is key to keeping these problems to a minimum. Hiring professionals to prevent termite infestation while repairing any termite damage is vital if you are ever the victim of these pests. Termites will only continue to create many challenges for homeowners, as understanding how to look for termite damage is critical in preventing minor problems from becoming a much bigger issue.