But when they attack our houses, its a different story.
They have a hidden life and can do significant damage before theyre ever discovered.
This is when most people notice them, says Benson.
Credit:Getty Images
Swarmers can appear anytime from late winter to fall, depending on the species and where you live.
Heres how to identify termites and how to get rid of a termite infestation.
Eric Benson, Ph.D., is a professor emeritus and extension entomologist atClemson University.
Ants' bodies are narrower at the waist and they have bent antennae.
If you see swarmers, get them positively identified so youll know what youre dealing with.
Its not a DIY job because your home is probably the most expensive investment youll make in life.
The good news is that if you do get termites in your home, they can be controlled.
Types Of Termites
Termites have been around for a few million years.
Thats why your home must be inspected from the ground up to the roofline.
The good news is that Formosan termites are not resistant to insecticides and arent super-termites.
The professional-use treatments are effective against Formosan termites at the same concentration levels used for native subterranean termites.
Theyre not going to do much damage over a few days or weeks, says Benson.
There are two widely used treatment methods, which may be combined.
The most common is to apply liquid termiticide in a trench in the soil around your house.
Drilling into brick or concrete slabs also may be necessary to establish continuous protection around the home.
The correct concentration and distribution of the termiticide must be applied to be effective, says Benson.
Alternatively, above-ground bait stations may be installed.
Improve Ventilation
check that basements andcrawl spacesare ventilated properly to prevent moisture buildup.
Also, dont store wood, cardboard, or other items in crawl spaces.
Check The Dryer Vent
Dryer vents can be an entry point for termites.
Dont vent dryers into crawl spaces.
The air creates the moist, humid environment termites seek.
The vent also releases lint from clothing, which some termites will eat.
Stack firewood away from the house, not up against it.
Keep it at least 20 feet away from your home.
Wood siding should start at least 6 inches above ground level.
They will not eat the insulation, but it can be a pathway to other parts of the home.
They dont like it too hot or too cold, says Benson.
It also makes inspections difficult.
Clean Gutters
Make suregutters are cleaned regularlyso water flows away from your house.
Seal any cracks and gaps around windows, doors, vents, and utilities ports into the house.
Sealing also helps control moisture levels that can attract termites.
But it can be hard to know what youre dealing with without a full home inspection.
Termites also nest deep in the soil, so several methods of treatment may need to be involved.
Turn to a professional to eradicate the pests.
Regular inspections can help determine whether termites are still present or if they have returned.
Liquid termiticide treatments work quickly.
These last for up to five years.
Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service.Formosan termites increase distribution in South Carolina.
Layton, B.Termite Biology (eastern subterranean termites and Formosan termites).
Mississippi State University Extension.
