Termites are present in Ohio and represent a considerable concern for property owners. These pests are known for their ability to cause substantial damage to homes and other structures, necessitating vigilance from homeowners to protect their investments.
Termite Species Found in Ohio
The most common and destructive termite species found in Ohio is the Eastern Subterranean Termite (Reticulitermes flavipes). These termites establish large colonies underground. They thrive in moist soil environments, constructing intricate tunnels to access food sources. Their diet consists of cellulose, found in wood, paper, and various other building materials.
While subterranean termites are the dominant concern, drywood termites are occasionally encountered in Ohio. These termites can be transported into homes through infested wooden items like furniture or wine crates. Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites do not require contact with soil and can live entirely within the wood they infest. Their colonies are smaller, and the damage they cause progresses at a slower rate.
Recognizing Termite Presence
Identifying a termite infestation early is important for mitigating potential damage. One clear indicator of subterranean termites is the presence of mud tubes. These pencil-sized tunnels, made of soil and wood, allow termites to travel between their underground colony and a food source for protection from open air. These tubes often appear on foundation walls, in crawl spaces, or along wooden structures.
Another common sign of termite activity involves the appearance of winged termites, known as swarmers, or their discarded wings. Swarmers are reproductive termites that emerge from established colonies, typically during warm, humid periods in spring, to establish new colonies. Homeowners might find small piles of translucent, fish-scale-like wings near windowsills, doors, or other light sources, indicating a swarming event.
Changes in wooden structures can also suggest a termite presence. Tapping on wood that sounds hollow indicates termites have been consuming the interior, leaving only a thin outer shell. Areas of paint that appear blistered or bubbling, or wood that seems darkened, may signal tunneling activity just beneath the surface, often mistaken for water damage. Other signs include sagging floors or ceilings, or doors and windows that become tight or difficult to open or close.
Understanding Termite Damage
Termites are often called “silent destroyers” because they consume wood from the inside out. They feed on cellulose, abundant in the wooden components of homes, including structural timbers like beams, studs, and floor joists. This internal consumption weakens the wood, potentially compromising the structural integrity of the entire building.
Termite damage can extend beyond the primary structural framework. They can also affect wooden flooring, furniture, and non-wood items containing cellulose, such as books, paper, and insulation. The appearance of termite damage can sometimes resemble water damage, with buckling wood or swollen surfaces, due to their tunneling and the moisture they introduce.
Managing Termite Concerns
Addressing termite concerns in Ohio involves preventative measures and professional intervention. Reducing moisture around the home is a primary preventative step, as termites are drawn to damp environments.
Moisture Reduction
Ensure proper drainage away from the foundation.
Repair leaky pipes or faucets.
Maintain clean gutters and downspouts.
Ensure good ventilation in crawl spaces to minimize humidity.
Minimizing wood-to-soil contact is another strategy to deter termites from gaining entry. Ensure wood siding and other wooden elements are at least six inches above ground level. Storing firewood, lumber, and other wood-based materials away from the house foundation, ideally elevated and at least 20 feet away, can also reduce potential food sources. Sealing cracks and crevices in the foundation and around utility entry points can prevent easy access.
If termite activity is suspected, or for ongoing protection, consulting a professional pest control service is advisable. Professional inspections can detect early signs of infestation that might be missed by an untrained eye, and experts can assess the extent of any existing problems. While some homeowners might consider do-it-yourself treatments, established termite infestations often require specialized methods like liquid soil treatments or baiting systems for effective elimination. Homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover the costly repairs associated with termite damage, emphasizing the importance of proactive prevention and professional management.