TERMITE TESTING

Subterranean termites are insects that feed on wood, frequently becoming pests of homes. There are two types of termites commonly encountered by homeowners: the worker and the swarmer. 

The Eastern Subterranean termite is the most common species is the most common type of termite in Georgia. The Formosan termite is now the most aggressive type of termite found in Georgia (they will even chew through electrical wiring!). The Drywood termite is also found in Georgia, but rare and typically found around coastal areas – and rarely seen in the Metro Atlanta area.

Unfortunately, termites are not uncommon in Georgia, where termite infestations are amongst the highest in the United States. In fact, several sources estimate that as many as 1 in 5 homes in Georgia either has been or will be attacked by termites.

Besides sighting one of these insects yourself, there are also other visible signs that can warn you of a termite infestation. These include but are not limited to, Hollow-sounding wood, sagging floors or ceilings, crumbling wood in any structure, and cracked or distorted paint on wood surfaces.

All termites live in large colonies headed by a queen and a king, workers, soldiers and swarmers.

The queen can live more than 25 years and is much larger than any other termite in the colony. She lays the eggs that keeps the colony going – sometimes more than 2,000 a day.

There are several ways to reduce the opportunity of termite infestation. Preventative measures such as reducing soil to wood contact, sealing gaps, keeping moisture away from your foundation, and installing termite bait stations will all help to reduce termites near your home.