Termites are wood-eating insects and live throughout the world. Over 2,000 species have been reported but only about 50 pieces have been documented in the United States. Our South Carolina climate is ideal for two common Subterranean (living underground) termites. (Reticulitermes flavipes) is the Eastern Subterranean and the (Reticulitermes virginicus) southeastern subterranean. Since these two species are similar in appearance, they cannot be distinguished apart with the naked eye. Not as common, but also documented in York County, is the Formosan Termite.

NATURE OF TERMITES
Termites are found in colonies with both male and female members. As with most living things, they require the right food, water and shelter. They are organized workers (like ants) with a specific job to do to keep their colony thriving. Some are soldiers, some gather food, and the reproductive termites produce and care for their larvae. Each colony can employ thousands of workers. Through the reproductive process, workers leave their nest to invade new structures in order to seek out a new food source.

WARNING SIGNS
Visible signs include mud tunnels running vertically on exposed foundations. These tubes connect the nest of workers to the food source. Other warning signs are swarming, flying ants, piles of wings, or damaged wood at your home’s structural bearing point.
While these visible signs will help detect the presence of termites, you many not be able to determine all infestations. Unfortunately, many nests are located behind walls and are left undetected until damage has already occurred. Although wood is their primary target, termites will penetrate even the toughest physical barriers and gain access into your home.

YOUR DEFENSE
Contact the Inspection Team at D&W Pest Solutions if you have seen any indicators of a termite infestation. D&W Pest Solutions offers on-site termite inspections, and if termites are found, we’ll provide solutions to solve the problem.

Your best defense is to protect your property before a termite infestation occurs.