One of the most destructive termites in the world is the Formosan subterranean termite which is found in the South Carolina area. These termites are known to cause a tremendous amount of property damage which will result in substantial repair costs and treatment. If you suspect an infestation of these termites in your home or business please make sure to contact a termite control expert at Ledford’s Pest Control for an inspection.
The Formosan subterranean termite originally descended from China and into Formosa (the main island in Taiwan where the termites received their name) and finally into Japan. Over the past 100 years the termites have spread over to the continental United States from those regions on ships into the Gulf of Mexico and the southeast Atlantic coast. The first reported finding of a Formosan subterranean termite was in Charleston, South Carolina in 1957. The spread of termites has become even easier with colonies being passed from state to state through potted plants and infested trees.
Termite Behavior
Swarms of Formosan subterranean termites usually will take place between the months of April and July. This is the time that you need to be the most aware about a potential infestation and consider termite treatment in the Charleston, Columbia and Florence areas. The termites are attracted to light and you can often find them in areas such as windows, windowsills and light fixtures. Formosan subterranean termites have large colonies up to 8 million individuals and the territory of a single colony can take up to 300 feet.
The termites feed on wood and materials that contain cellulose which is the main ingredient that is found in plants. They will also feed on materials that are cellulose-containing such as cardboard and paper. Other materials that Formosan subterranean termites will eat include some plastics, copper sheeting and asphalt. Being able to eat their way through a variety of materials is another reason why these destructive termites need to be removed at the first sign of any damage to your home or property. If you suspect an infestation please make sure to request an inspection for a termite treatment in the Columbia, Charleston or Florence, South Carolina areas.
Generally the termites will live underground in carton nests and even some colonies will build nests above the ground where moisture is present. This includes porches or rooftops where moisture is commonly collected or any landscaped areas. They can also be found on boats or ships and not only in your home or business. If an infestation takes place you will need a termite treatment from our Columbia, Charleston or Florence, South Carolina service areas.
Signs of Formosan Termites
It can be difficult to tell if your home or business has been infested by Formosan subterranean termites. Some of the obvious signs will include a visible carton nest in the attic or void walls or other areas but the nest is not always visible. Here are some of the most common signs of an infestation:
- Damp or Moist Patches
- Soft Spots
- Blistered Paint
- Bulges in the Paint or Wallpaper
Also look for mud shelter tubes since the termites do not like to be exposed to light and air and will leave these traces behind as they move. Typically the tubes can be found on walls, floors, ceilings or sticking out from trees or other surfaces.
At the first sign of an infestation from Formosan subterranean termites please make sure to contact the pest control experts at Ledford’s Pest Control. Our services are guaranteed to remove these pests with our termite treatment services in the Charleston, Columbia and Florence area, South Carolina areas. If you would like to schedule an inspection please click here or feel free to contact us.
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