Charlotte Termite Control

The discovery of small black-winged insects in large numbers, many times occurring in early Spring, is most often the only indication termites will give that they are or have infested a structure. The winged termites in a termite colony are known as the reproductive casts, most commonly called swarmers are the most common way that homeowners find out that they have a termite infestation. Termites will swarm usually only once a year. When they do, in most cases, it lasts for only a few hours. The time of a swarm is normally after a period of rain and on a calm sunny day. Termite swarmers are sometimes mistaken for flying ants. It is best to save a few samples of the insects that you’ve seen so that one of our technicians can positively identify the insect.

Wood damaged by termites always has remains of mud tubes attached to wood galleries or tunnels in an irregular pattern. The tunnels may contain broken mud particles with fecal materials. In the case of an active colony, pale white termites may be found in the infested wood. The presence of shed wings inside a building may be the only indication of an infestation.

The presence of mud or shelter tubes extending from the ground to woodwork or on foundation walls also may indicate infestation. Workers travel periodically via shelter tubes to their nest to regain moisture and perform feeding duties. A mud tube can range in size from the diameter of a lead pencil to several inches wide, depending upon its age and usage.

How Old Is The Damage?

There have been some predictions that, under ideal conditions, a termite colony of 60,000 workers may consume a one-foot length of 2″ x 4″ pine in 118 to 157 days. The presence of termite damage does not necessarily mean you have an active termite infestation. Look for signs of a previous treatment, such as drill holes in the concrete or even a treatment sticker placed on the cabinet wall under your kitchen sink by a previous owner.

Types of Treatments:

Typically, in Charlotte, NC termite treatments consist of two types, liquid and bait. They both are very effective with each having their own positive attributes and negative drawbacks. This is why it is important that a professional be hired to determine the proper treatment for your particular circumstance. 

Liquid treatments have been in use the longest but are the most intrusive type of treatment. They require the most labor and chemicals to be applied in and around your home. Liquid treatments are great for quick control and effective residual to prevent future infestations from occurring. Some common treatment procedures involved with a liquid termite treatment in Charlotte, NC are trenches to be dug against the exterior and if applicable the interior of the foundation walls. This trench will serve as the treatment site for the liquid termiticide to be applied. Half inch holes will be drilled in concrete areas adjacent to the foundation walls. The most common areas drilled include front/rear porches, sidewalks and garage slab areas. Liquid termiticide will be injected into each hole and then the hole should be patched with appropriate material. A yearly inspection will be provided to ensure that no disruption has occurred to the treatment site(s) and that no recurring termite activity is found.

Bait station treatments have been in use in the pest control industry since the 90’s. A Charlotte termite bait treatment involves the placement of termite bait stations in the ground around the structure which is to be treated. Just like liquid treatment, there are several different products that can be used. Most require that the stations be installed in soil at specific intervals from one another around the structure being treated. Our company also drills and treats all slab areas the same way that is required with liquid treatments. Bait stations involve inspections. The intervals between the inspections will vary depending on the requirements from the bait station manufacturers. A yearly inspection is provided just like with a liquid treatment; however, with a bait station treatment all of the components inside the bait station are checked and replaced as needed.

Charlotte termite control is a very tricky practice. Our trained and certified technicians will create a customized Charlotte termite treatment plan based on the type of construction of your building and the amount of termite infestation to safely control termites.

If infestation is suspected or if you have further questions, CLICK HERE or call Superior Pest Management at 704-644-8586.