Why Ignoring Flying Termites Can Lead to Costly Damage

Flying termites might seem harmless, but homeowners should not ignore them. Doing so can lead to big problems.

These winged pests are frequently a sign of a much larger problem.

Let’s look at why flying termites should be taken seriously and how you may prevent them from wreaking havoc on your home.

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What Are Flying Termites?

Flying termites, known as “swarmers” or alates, are the colony’s breeding members.

Their function is to leave the nest, mate, and establish new colonies.

They usually come in big swarms, particularly after a shower or in humid climates.

A swarm of flying termites may look like a minor issue. However, it signals that a termite colony is nearby or, worse, inside your home.

Signs of Flying Termites in Your Home

Flying termites and flying ants may look alike, but they have some key differences.

Termites have straight antennae, wings that are all the same length, and a waist that is equal in size.

Signs that you may have flying termite infestations include:

• A sudden swarm indoors or near lights.
• Discarded termite wings at windowsills or entryways
• Mud tunnels on walls or foundations
• When tapped, the wood produces a hollow sound.
• Tiny holes in wood surfaces.

If you see even a few of these signs, you should take immediate action.

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Why Ignoring Flying Termites Is a Big Mistake

Termite damage often goes unnoticed. Many homes find out how severe an infestation is only when it’s too late.

Ignoring flying termites can have costly and harmful consequences.

Severe Structural Damage

Termites eat wood from the inside out. This can harm your home’s structure for months or even years before you notice.

Rafters, beams, flooring, and wall supports are all exposed. If you don’t treat a termite infestation, it can weaken your home’s structure.

This makes your home dangerous and may require large repairs.

Hidden Infestations That Spread Quickly

When swarmers appear, it is usually a sign that an existing colony has matured and is ready to expand.

These new termites will hunt for fresh wood. This can result in many infestations on your property or in the area.

The longer they spread, the harder and costlier it is to get rid of them.

Decreased Property Value

Selling your home can be tough if there’s a history of termite infestations or visible damage. This can greatly lower its market value.

Potential buyers could be deterred or might use the infestation to push for a lower price.

Even when the problem is fixed, the stigma of termite damage can linger and hurt resale values.

Expensive Pest Control Treatments Later

The cost of early termite treatment is low. In contrast, treating a large infestation is far more expensive.

Chemical barriers, bait systems, and fumigation are all advanced treatments. They can cost thousands of dollars each.

These higher costs can be avoided if you act quickly when you spot flying termites.

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How to Prevent Termite Damage

Fortunately, you can take some steps now to stop termite damage before it starts.

1. Schedule Regular Termite Inspections

A licensed pest control professional can do yearly termite checks to find issues early.

Professionals know how to spot signs of termite activity that homeowners might miss.

Regular checkups are your first line of defense.

2. Eliminate Moisture Sources

Termites are drawn to moist environments.

Fix leaking pipes, keep drainage right in your home, and use dehumidifiers in basements or crawl spaces.

Reduced moisture makes your home less appealing to termites.

3. Keep Wood Away from Your Home’s Foundation

Avoid storing firewood, logs, or other wooden materials near the foundation.

Mulch should also be kept a few inches from the home’s exterior.

These materials can serve as easy food sources and entry points for termites.

4. Install Termite Barriers

Physical and chemical termite barriers can offer long-term protection.

These are soil treatments, stainless steel mesh, and sand barriers. They are designed to keep termites out of your home.

Consider these options, especially if you live in a termite-prone area.

5. Act Immediately If You See Swarmers

Do not ignore flying termites or believe they will go away on their own.

They are a warning sign. Acting quickly can stop serious damage and save you money on repairs.

Contact a termite specialist as soon as you notice swarmers in or near your home.

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Protect Your Home with the Right Termite Bait System

If you spot flying termites or suspect an infestation, act immediately.

Contact Pestmaster, a professional termite control service, today to schedule an inspection and safeguard your home.

Next read: How to Choose the Right Termite Bait System for Your Home