As a homeowner in Alabama, you’ll need to know the basics about termites: how to recognize an infestation, when to prepare for swarms, and what to do if termites make their way into your home.

No one wants to think about termite infestations when they buy a home, but homeowners in Alabama are all too aware of them. Termites can cause thousands of dollars in damages to a home if they’re not caught.

Luckily,

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has put together a guide to what you need to know about termites in Alabama.

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How to tell if you have a termite infestation

Since they’re easy to miss, termites can become destructive quickly. These tiny insects could be eating away at the walls of your home for months before you realize there’s a problem.

By knowing the early warning signs of a termite infestation, you can prevent them from causing serious damage. Keep a watchful eye out for these symptoms of termite activity:

Discarded wings: Reproductive termites will have wings. If you notice discarded wings anywhere, particularly around window sills, there are probably termites in your home.

Mud tubes: Termites leave thin tunnels of mud along house foundations to get inside.

Hollow-sounding walls: If there’s a hollow sound when you knock on walls or wooden structures, there may be an infestation.

Droppings: If you find what looks like small piles of sawdust or salt and pepper, these are termite droppings or

frass

Other common signs of termite infestation include bubbling or paint, small round holes in drywall, and swollen floors or walls.

MORE: How to get rid of household bugs

Are termites a problem in Alabama?

Yes, termites are a significant problem in Alabama since the state is located in Termite Infestation Probability Zone 1. The U.S. Forest Service has a

map

outlining these zones.

If you are a homeowner in Alabama, it’s essentially required to learn about termites if you want to be responsible. Here are the three common kinds of termites in Alabama and when you need to watch out for them.

Formosan Subterranean Termites

Formosan subterranean termites live in large groups and can do a lot of damage to homes. There are colonies with populations as large as 15 million termites, and they build underground colonies and can forage up to 300 feet in soil.

These termites usually swarm at night when the temperature has cooled during the late springtime. Female termites will lay between 15-30 eggs, which hatch in less than a month.

Eastern Subterranean Termites

Eastern subterranean termites are the most common kind of termite found in the U.S. They are also easier to find since they are larger than others, measuring at around 10 millimeters.

These termites prefer to swarm in the daytime when temperatures start to rise and can begin mating as early as February (if the winter is particularly warm) through May. On a positive note, it takes eastern subterranean termites years to do any significant damage.

Dark Southeastern Subterranean Termites

Dark southeastern subterranean termites are less common than the other two kinds of termites and are usually found in the southern and eastern regions of Alabama. They have smaller colonies, but multiple colonies in the same area can create swarms containing millions of termites.

Daytime from March through June is the time of year preferred by these termites for swarming. They are smaller but are capable of inflicting serious damage.

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What to do if you have termites

So you’ve noticed the telltale signs of an infestation and you’re ready to get rid of it.

There are three main options for professional solutions:

Fumigation: Best for major infestations. The whole house will be covered by a tent, and exterminators will pump in gas to kill the termites. Everyone including pets must stay out for a minimum of 24 hours.

Bait stations: Of these options, this is the least invasive to your home. Exterminators will set out small plastic dishes around your home’s perimeter to draw out and kill the termites. Be warned that it may take months to work.

Liquid treatments: Exterminators can dig a trench surrounding your home and create a chemical moat to kill any subterranean termites that try to cross it.

How to save money on your homeowners insurance

In most circumstances, your homeowners insurance will not cover damage caused by termites. The best way to protect your home is to learn about termites and watch out for any warning signs.

You’ll be able to count on your

homeowners insurance

for other perils, so it’s important to have the right policy. By downloading the Jerry app, you can be certain you’re getting the best deals on homeowners insurance (and

car insurance

Jerry

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FAQs

Do most homes in Alabama have termites?

Unfortunately, termites are a very common problem in Alabama. It is estimated that over 1 in 5 homes in urban areas have been or will be infested with termites.

How often should you treat for termites in Alabama?

The frequency of treatment will depend on what kind is used. A liquid treatment can last a few years, but bait stations need to be replaced after a few months.

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