Page 14 - IPMA 1st Qtr. Newsletter
P. 14
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Q: How will I know if my home is infested? mud or soil lining the feeding galleries.
A: Discovering winged termites indoors Wood damaged by moisture or other
almost always indicates an infestation types of insects (e.g., carpenter ants) will
warranting treatment. Since the swarmers not have this appearance. Occasionally
are attracted to light, they often are termites also bore tiny holes through
seen around windows and doors. People drywall or plaster, accompanied by bits
often confuse winged termites with ants, of soil around the margin. Rippled or
which tend to swarm at the same time sunken traces behind wall coverings can
of year. Termites have straight antennae, also be indicative of termites tunneling
a uniformly thickened waist, and wings underneath.
of equal size. Conversely, ants have Oftentimes there will be no clear
elbowed antennae, constricted waists, and indication of infestation. Termites are
forewings that are longer than the hind cryptic creatures and infestations can
wings. go undetected for years, hidden behind
Swarms of termites emerging from tree walls, floor coverings, insulation, and
stumps, woodpiles, etc. out in the yard other obstructions. Termite feeding and
are not necessarily cause for concern, and damage can even progress undetected in
do not automatically mean the house is exposed wood because the outer surface
infested. On the other hand, if swarmers usually remains intact. Confirmation of
are emerging next to the foundation or termites often requires the keen eye of
from abutting porches or patios, there’s a (Continued on page 14)
good chance the home is infested as well.
Other signs of infestation are earthen
“mud” tubes extending over foundation
walls, support piers, sill plates, floor joists, Get Social.
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Termite-damaged wood is hollowed
out along the grain, with bits of dried
Page 14 IPMA Connection • 1st Quarter, 2020
