It’s termite season in NC. How to keep those wood-eating pests out of your home

Evan Moore
·2 min read
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During spring, the wood in your house can become the perfect home for insects that never sleep: termites.

In North Carolina, termite season usually begins in March or April, when the wood-eating pests leave their nests to search for mates through a process known as “swarming,” according to Charlotte-based Sage Pest Control.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, termites cause billions in damage to homes in the U.S. each year.

And wood isn’t the only meal that attracts termites. The insects feed on anything with cellulose, the main component of wood, including paper, cardboard, and carpeting, scientists at North Carolina State University explained.

Here are some signs indicating your home is infested with termites, what to do if you suspect them, and how to keep the insects out.

What are the signs of a termite infestation?

Here are some signs that termites may be in your home, according to Carolina Pest Management:

  • Winged insects swarming around your house or near your soil

  • Cracked paint on your house

  • Mud tubes, typically the size of straw, near your house

  • Fallen wings from insects on the ground or in your basement or crawl space

  • Hollowed wood

What you should do if you suspect termites

If you discover termites in your home, researchers at NC State suggest contacting a pest management professional to have your house inspected as soon as possible.

Here are some questions you can ask a professional that will determine the type of treatment you need:

  • How extensive is the problem?

  • What should be done to eliminate the termites?

  • How much will the work cost?

  • What kind of guarantee does the company offer?

  • Should the damage be inspected by a contractor or engineer before treatment begins?

Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover termite damage, so the cost of treatment would likely come out of your pocket, according to Allstate.

How to prevent termites

Here are some tips on how to prevent termites, according to the National Pest Management Association:

  • Reduce moisture around your home

  • Repair leaky faucets, water pipes, and exterior AC units

  • Replace weather stripping and loose mortar around your basement foundation and windows

  • Monitor exterior areas of wood, such as windows and door frames, for noticeable changes

  • Maintain an 18-inch gap between soil and any wood in your home

  • Schedule a professional termite inspection annually

  • Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your home