Tuesday May 29, 2018
Termites can cause quite a ruckus in Florida. Drywood, Native Subterranean, Formosan and Asian Subterranean Termites all call Florida home. If not properly checked, they can cause massive structural damage and lead to expensive repairs.
Warm temperatures and heavy rain trigger swarming behavior, infestations and new nests. New nests mean more termites – and more destruction – to any wood they find, including doors, baseboards, trim, furniture cabinets, wood studs in walls, fascia and soffit wood, and most importantly the wood rafters and beams holding up your roof.
Signs of termites include:
- Hollow-sounding or weakened wood
- Pin-like holes in wood
- Piles of droppings that look like sand or coffee grounds
- Muddy-looking holes in wood
- Wings and termite bodies around lights, doors, window sills, TV or computer screens
If you suspect your community has been invaded, now is the time to act. The first step is to have a professional properly identify the type of termite. Time is of the essence in this stage, and you’ll need experts to do a complete analysis and develop a customized plan for your property’s needs.
Drywood termites
This variety lives in wood, and a mature colony can range from 3,000 to 5,000 pests. They can consume approximately a toothpick’s worth of wood each day. If left unchecked, they will cause major damage.
Subterranean termites
These critters live in the ground. They often leave muddy tubes or lines on your walls or in wood. The mud tubes are used to reach food above ground and for protection.
Formosan and Asian Subterranean termites
These termites are the most destructive in the world – so much so that they’re called “super termites.” A single colony can consume a three-foot 2x4 in one day. More than one mature colony will often invade a single structure, so reacting in a timely manner is critical.
The single most effective way to protect your community from termites and avoid structural damage is through annual termite inspections. To learn more about how partnering with a professional, quality property management company can help you address issues like termite infestations and more, contact FirstService Residential, Florida’s leading property management company.