Swarming Termites: What You Need To Know In San Diego, CA

Swarming Termites: What You Need To Know In San Diego

It’s hard to beat living in San Diego. The weather is warm but not too hot, the beach is nearby, and it rarely rains. And while this climate is great for people who enjoy being outside and living life, it is also great for pests like termites.

Just hearing the word should scare homeowners, and with good reason. Termites have been given the nickname “the silent destroyer” for their ability to do extensive damage without being detected. Swarming season is when termites leave their nest to start new colonies. When it occurs varies by species but generally happens during the warmer months between June and November. That doesn’t mean December to May is termite-free. Our temperate climate means termites are active year-round, eating away at your home.

What Is A Swarmer?

Often mistaken for flying ants, swarmers are winged termites responsible for reproduction and the spread of colonies. Swarmers are future kings and queens of termite colonies and the only termites that can fly. When the weather gets warm, they fly out of the ground through tunnels, searching for areas that would make suitable habitats. Once they do, they shed their wings and form a new colony.

Termite season in San Diego is year-round. The swarming season occurs in the spring, usually when the temperature warms up and after rain. These are the times to be vigilant for signs of swarmers around your home. If you see pests that look like flying ants or find discarded wings, contact us immediately.

Little Pest, Big Damage

Termites don’t sleep, so all they do is eat. And when it is your home that they are eating, it can turn into a major problem. Termites are such destructive pests because they do most of their damage in areas where you won’t see them. This means that by the time you see termites, it is too late.

To put in perspective how much damage they can do, let’s look at some facts and figures:

• Termites eat 2-3% of their body weight daily.
• A small termite colony can eat a 2”x4” in five months.
• It is estimated that termites do more than five billion dollars in damage annually across the United States.
• The average cost for repairs for an individual homeowner is around $3300.

The worst part is that, in many cases, the costs associated with termite damage aren’t covered by insurance, leaving you on the hook for pricey repairs.

Signs Of Termites

The signs of a termite infestation can be difficult to detect. But being able to spot indicators of their presence can help catch an infestation early, which can save you money. Here are few signs of termites to be aware of:

• Mud tubes on your home’s exterior walls and foundation
• The presence of frass, a fine, sawdust-like powder near holes in walls
• Paint or wallpaper that is uneven or bubbled
• Wood that sounds hollow when it is tapped
• Discarded wings from swarmers, usually near windows and doors

If you see any of these signs, contact a professional pest control company immediately. The sooner you call, the sooner treatment can begin, and the less damage they can do.

Professional Termite Control

While being aware of the signs of termites is important, there is no substitute for professional termite control. At Allswell Here, we can inspect your home for signs of termites that you may not be able to see. We know where to look and exactly what to look for.

We can also develop a home pest control plan that prevents termites in the first place. This means that you can rest assured knowing your home and your budget are protected from these tiny pests and the big issues they can cause.