Termites do billions of dollars of damage each year.
Central Florida offers a perfect environment for termites. Because so many Orlando-area homes are near waterways and ponds, and we have frequent rain showers, moisture-loving termites have a welcoming habitat to make their homes.
Termite Basics
Termites are small social insects that live in large colonies and feed on organic matter. They are particularly attracted to wood and paper. They are dark in color, with 3/8 of an inch long torsos and wings of equal length (as compared to ants, which have pinched torsos and unequal-length wings).
Some termites, including the native subterranean termites and Formosan termites, prefer to live in or close to the soil or near sources of moisture. This includes areas around home foundations and buildings with water from dripping pipes, air conditioner drains, or gutters. Because so much of the Orlando area is damp, termites can become established in many places.
New Termite Species Pose a Serious Threat to Homes
Florida is an ideal home for termites, but in 2015, scientists at the University of Florida discovered two non-native termite species mating in South Florida. This hybrid termite builds colonies twice as fast as the previous species, increasing damage potential. The good news for Orlando and Central Florida is that scientists don’t know if this hybrid variety can survive our fluctuating temperatures.
How do you know if you have a termite infestation?
You see swarms of termites near your home.
Breeding pairs are often drawn to lights at night, and because they don’t fly far from their colonies, seeing a swarm suggests an active infestation nearby.
Termite mud tubes.
The presence of mud shelter tubes, hollow tubes that allow termites to travel between their nests and food supply, is a big red flag.
Damaged wood.
Wood damage is hard to detect because termites usually burrow deep into the wood, but sometimes their damage will be visible outside. Tip: Tap lightly on wood using a screwdriver handle to test for hollow areas that suggest damage.
Evidence of wood particles or pellets (fecal material).
Most pest infestations can be determined by signs of activity, like droppings/feces. Note that only some species of termite expel pellets.
Damage to building insulation.
Some types of insulation have a paper cover that termites love to eat, and they may tunnel through the insulation that otherwise has no nutritional value so that they can reach moisture and new food sources, like wooden piers.
In central Florida, termites cause significant property damage. It’s worth keeping an eye on all wooden structures and outdoor fixtures for infestations or damage, including but not limited to:
- privacy fencing, particularly along the ground
- outdoor decking, patios, and playscapes
- the roof, especially under shingles
- foundations
- landscape shrubbery and trees; Some termites like new growth, while others may become established in dead wood, making limbs more brittle
- siding
- piles of debris and building materials or firewood
- wood mulch in gardens and landscaping
What to do if you suspect you have a termite infestation.
Termite colonies can be difficult to locate and eradicate. If you suspect your home has termite damage or you’ve seen evidence of active termite activity (including swarming behavior), your best bet is to call a professional to inspect your property.