What You Need To Know About Termites In North Carolina! - Types and Identification
Last Updated On March 13th, 2023: A termite infestation around your home can cause thousands of dollars in damage and can make your home unsafe for yourself and your family. Living in North Carolina, termites are abundant because of the warm and humid climate that we deal with throughout the year but especially in the Summer. Because termites in North Carolina can be so destructive, we created this blog to help inform North Carolinians how to identify termites, the different species of termites common in NC, and how to get rid of termites!
Species of Termites Common In North Carolina:
Due to the warm and humid climate of NC, there are only a few species of termites that are common in North Carolina, and these are Eastern Subterranean Termites and Formosan Subterranean Termites.
Eastern Subterranean Termites:
As the name suggests, Eastern Subterranean Termites live entirely underground and are often responsible for damage to buildings and structures. This species of termites are social insects that live in large colonies and specialized roles includes workers, soldiers, and reproductives.
Formosan Subterranean Termites:
Formosan Subterranean Termites are another underground species of termites. These termites are originally from Asia, but since the 1960's have made their way to the United States and North Carolina specifically. Similar to Eastern Subterranean Termites they also are social insects with individual roles in the colony.
Termites In North Carolina Video:
How To Identify Termites In North Carolina:
There are a few ways to identify termites in North Carolina. The easiest way to identify termites is by finding some damage they leave behind. That being said, it's always best to identify that your home has termites before any damage has been done.
Termite Damage:
One of the most common ways to identify termites in North Carolina is by the damage they leave behind. Termites will eat away at wood, often leaving a tell-tale sign of damage that looks like ripples in the wood. If you see this type of damage it's important to call a professional to investigate as soon as possible.
Physical Appearance:
Another way to identify termites in North Carolina is by their physical appearance. Termites in NC are small, white insects with wings. They are typically between 1/8 and 1/4 inch long and are usually a white to cream translucent color. Along with this, some termites have wings, termite swarms and reproductives have wings, while soldiers and workers do not have wings!
Signs Of NC Termites:
In order to catch termites prior to them causing serious damage to your home, you should constantly be on the lookout for signs of termites. Here are some of the most common signs of termites for North Carolina homes:
Mud Tubes:
Termites create mud tubes to travel from the soil into your home or walls. This is their main source of transportation from the outside world, into your home. If you see mud tubes this means that recently there was an active infestation.
If you see mud tubes without any termites around it, we recommend cracking it open to look for any signs of termites. If you don't see any termites, this doesn't mean the termites are gone, it could simply mean they have abandoned this particular tunnel, and have probably moved on to another set of mud tubes.
Swarming and Discarded Wings:
Another sign of termites in and around your home is the presence of discarded wings. Every year termites will begin "swarming" which is when the winged adult begins to expand and look for a new place to call home. When they've found a suitable environment (your home), they will drop their wings into a pile and begin to create mud tubes and nests to settle down in.
Cracked Paint and Bubbles In Paint:
Since termites often are looking to eat their way through your foundation and drywall, you'll often see noticeable damage on your walls if there is an active termite infestation in that area. If there are termites eating through your drywall you'll often see cracked paint or even bubbles in the paint as they work their way through the wall behind the paint.
When Are Termites Most Active In North Carolina?
Termites are generally most active and visible when they are swarming. Termites in North Carolina generally swarm in Early Spring, but existing colonies can be active all year round!
Are Termites Common In NC?
Termites are common in North Carolina because the warm and humid climate of NC is hospitable for multiple species of termites. You should keep an eye out for termites, especially in Spring, but also year round in North Carolina!
Is Termite Protection Necessary In North Carolina?
Because termite infestations are common in North Carolina due to our climate, termite protection from a professional is highly recommended to protect your home and for your peace of mind
Final Thoughts On Termites In NC
Unfortunately, termites love the North Carolina climate just as much as we do, and this puts your home at added risk. Thankfully to combat NC termites we offer Termite Control Services all over the Triangle, so no matter where you're located, TPC's got you covered.
Thank you for reading our guide on termites in North Carolina, and I hope this has helped you understand these damaging pests!
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