Do termites spread quickly?
Termites are active all year round, although the swarming season usually happens during summer. Most subterranean termites swarm during both spring and summer months, and drywood termites tend to swarm late in summer.
Is there a reason to be worried? From our experience, we would say yes! Termites spread quickly and infest properties fast. Termites can be right under your nose but you may not know for months.
What is a termite infestation?
Termites live in colonies. Mature termite colonies typically contain anywhere from 60,000 to 1 million termites and can spread underground up to 50 metres in each direction from the epicentre of their nest. Termites can also breed just as quickly, as some can fly and begin new colonies.
If your property has a termite problem, it may cause significant structural damage to a home if left undetected. This could be devastating or even dangerous. Your termite infestation can affect the whole neighbourhood as well.
At the first sight of a termite infestation, it is important to contact us for a professional termite inspection. We DO NOT advise DIY options.
Here are the two main ways termites spread:
- Winged reproductive termite swarms
Both male and female winged ‘alates’ leave their colonies and take flight. When they land, the impregnated female will find a suitable location to start a new termite colony.
After the winged termites land, they discard their wings. This is why you may see some wings around your property, particularly around the outside – windowsills, door frames and patios.
- Worker termites foraging for food
Worker termites use the mud tubes they make to travel all over your property looking for food sources. As they spread throughout your property they can even spread to the surrounding homes.
If your neighbour’s home or even homes in your street or suburb have active termites, it is extremely important to book a termite inspection and continue having regular inspections. There is a high chance the termites will spread to your property too.
In most cases, you will only notice the termite problem after the damage is done. Have a look for early signs of termite infestation – for more information on the signs of a termite infestation click here.
Precision Pest Control – termite control experts
All of Precision Pest Control’s technicians are highly experienced, well trained and qualified to treat termites. They are also your local expert on any pest in your area, including termites.
As we noted, if your neighbour – or neighbourhood – has termites, it means you could too. Give us a call as soon as possible to arrange a termite inspection. One of our friendly technicians will visit at a time to suit you to inspect for any signs of a termite infestation. If you do have a termite infestation, we will devise a targeted termite treatment for your property.
The presence of termites means immediate action is necessary and requires someone qualified and experienced to get the job done – with precision. Read more about our experience with termites here.