As the weather becomes warmer and the harsh chill of winter fades into the distance, people will be spending more time outdoors to enjoy the pleasant weather. Unfortunately, we aren’t the only ones who like to take advantage of the warmer weather that comes with the arrival of spring. Termites also enjoy the warmth of spring and summer, which is why it’s important to be aware of their presence here in Omaha.
What Is Termite Awareness Week?
With winter leaving many homes susceptible to the threat of termites, it’s important to understand when and why these common pests start becoming more of a threat. Termite Awareness Week is an annual observance by the National Pest Management Association to spread awareness about these destructive insects. Termite Awareness Week occurs every year during the first full week before spring, just before termites start becoming more active again.
How Much Damage Do Termites Cause In Omaha, NE?
Termites are regarded as one of the most destructive pests found in Omaha and throughout the United States. They thrive in warm, humid weather, which is why they are most active during the spring and summer months. Termites eat cellulose, which is found in wooden materials. Unfortunately, termites are just as likely to chew through a rotting log as they are to chew through the structure of your Omaha property.
Termites are often called “silent destroyers” because they can cause extensive damage to the structure of your home undetected. Many termite infestations are only discovered after significant damage has already been done. Each year, termites cost United States property owners about 5 billion dollars.
These small, social insects never sleep. Instead, they work and chew wood continuously throughout their entire lives. Unfortunately, even small termite colonies are a threat to your Omaha property. A single colony of no more than 60,000 termites is capable of chewing through a 2x4 plank of wood in as little as six months.
How To Identify Termite Activity Around Your Omaha Property
Termites are sneaky pests that can invade your property and cause significant damage without your knowledge. These common insects are one of the most difficult pests to identify, control, and prevent, which is why it’s important to be proactive and look out for signs of termite activity around your property. If you suspect termites are nesting, here are some of the signs you can look for to identify their presence:
- Mud tubes extending up your foundation and exterior walls
- Excessively squeaky, spongy, or bowing floorboards
- Flying termites (also known as termite “swarmers”) anywhere around your property
- Piles of discarded termite wings, left behind after swarmers find a location to build their nests
- Discolored or drooping areas of drywall
- Wood that sounds hollow when you tap on it
- Visible signs of damage, such as maze-like patterns carved into your furniture
- Sticking windows and hard-to-open doors
- Signs of termite damage in nearby trees, logs, or stumps
- Cracks in your ceiling
- Bubbling or peeling paint that often resembles water damage
- Small piles of dry wood termite pellets, which are also called “frass”
By keeping an eye out for these signs, you have a better chance of identifying the presence of termites before they have the opportunity to cause significant damage to your Omaha property. Unfortunately, simply being aware of termite activity isn’t enough to protect your property.
The best way to protect your property from termites is with professional services from Beeline Pest Control. We work hard to identify, eliminate, and prevent termite infestations throughout the entire year. Reach out to our skilled pest management professionals today for more information about our termite treatments.