Termites, the very word can send shivers down the spine of any property owner. These silent destroyers can wreak havoc on your property, causing significant damage before you even realize there’s a problem. For New Jersey residents, understanding and identifying termites and how to deal with them is crucial. In this blog post, we’ll explore common termite species in New Jersey, signs of an infestation, and the potential damage they can cause.
Termite Identification
Common Termite Species in New Jersey
In New Jersey, the most common termite species are the Eastern Subterranean termites. They are notorious for their ability to cause extensive damage to wooden structures. Unlike some other termite species that live above ground, Eastern Subterranean termites build their colonies underground and construct mud tubes to reach food sources.
Signs of Termite Infestation
Termites are elusive creatures, making it challenging to spot an infestation early. However, there are several telltale signs New Jersey homeowners should be aware of for termite identification:
- Mud Tubes: Termites create pencil-sized mud tubes along walls, foundations, or pipes to travel between their colony and food sources.
- Discarded Wings: Swarmers, or reproductive termites, shed their wings after finding a new nesting site. Piles of discarded wings near windowsills or doorways are a red flag.
- Hollow Wood: Tap on wooden structures in your home. If the wood sounds hollow, termites may have eaten it from the inside out.
- Frass: This is termite droppings that resemble sawdust or coffee grounds. Finding frass near wooden structures indicates active termite activity.
- Buckling or Bubbling Paint: Termites can cause paint to bubble or peel, as they consume the material behind the walls.
Understanding the Threat
Potential Damage to Properties
Termites can cause severe structural damage to homes and buildings. They feed on cellulose, primarily found in wood, but they can also damage paper, insulation, and even swimming pool liners. Over time, termite infestations can weaken the structural integrity of a building, leading to costly repairs and posing safety risks. In fact, termites cause billions of dollars in property damage annually in the United States.
If you need immediate termite prevention or extermination services, contact Allison Pest Control now and stay tuned for next week’s blog on prevention tips, the importance of professional inspections, and local resources available to you.
