Every spring, termites become more active than at any point during the year. They’re not incredibly common in California, but many parts of the U.S. experience termite swarms during this time. A termite swarm is, as the name implies, when subterranean termites become incredibly active and move in massive groups. These termites threaten just about every wooden structure in their path. Even if they aren’t swarming, they’re still a problem that everyone with a house should be aware of. There are a few ways to identify if you have a termite problem. Here are some of the signs.
Discarded Wings
Subterranean termites tend to swarm during the spring, because the swarmers have to move to create a new colony. They move in large groups to create new colonies. Drywood termites are a little harder to predict, but they do swarm as well. Termites tend to have very fragile wings, so when they swarm, their wings tend to fall off. If you see scattered termite wings in or around your house, call a termite control specialist in Ventura, CA immediately. You’ll recognize termite wings because they’re incredibly light and translucent.
Hollow-Sounding Wood
Termites don’t tend to feed on wood at the surface of the wood. They like to burrow down into it and feed from the inside. You could have walls that look healthy, but are actually being eaten from the inside. One way to determine this is to tap on the wood. If it sounds hollow, you might have termites undermining the internal structure of the wood.
Holes in the Walls
Holes in the walls are going to be the most obvious sign you need termite control in Ventura, CA. Termites eat through wood and eventually emerge at the surface. You’ll recognize a termite hole as a non-uniform hole in the wall. There will typically be dirt gathered around the edge of the hole. Termites create what are called mud tubes to preserve their habitat inside the wall. Therefore, the hole is often sealed with mud, which you will see emerging on the walls.
Winged Insects
This seems obvious, but you should definitely keep your eyes out for winged insects. Typically, you’ll be able to see a swarm of termites outside as the sun goes down. As the sun sets, the bugs will emerge. If you live in a city, you’ll notice them swarming in big groups around any source of light.
By the way, if this happens, you should keep your windows and doors closed. Also, keep your curtains drawn so that the light inside your house doesn’t attract them.
If you see any of these signs, call a termite control professional. Your home is your biggest investment, and termites are a massive threat to that.
If you find that you have termite damage in your home, it is best to hire professionals that specialize in termite control in Ventura. Contact Casner Exterminating today for more information.
