What You Need to Know About Termites in Delaware
In Delaware, there is only one major species of termite, but they can be seen causing destruction throughout the state.
Written by Claire Beaney
Reviewed by Lauren Smith
Table of Contents
- How to tell if you have a termite infestation
- Are termites a problem in Delaware?
- What to do if you have termites
- How to save money on homeowners insurance
- FAQs
Load full table of contents
Whether you live in Wilmington or Dover, termites are a risk to homeowners across the state of
Delaware
. Keep an eye out for one specific species that might be wreaking havoc in your home.It's important to know the basics of termite 101 if you own property in Delaware: how to tell when you have an infestation, how to deal with swarms, and what to do if you find termites.
No one wants to deal with termites—but in Delaware, it’s vital that you do. A termite infestation can cause thousands of dollars in damage to your property if you don't recognize the warning symptoms.
To make things easy for you, the
home
and car insurance
super app Jerry
is breaking down everything you might need to know about termites in Delaware.How to tell if you have a termite infestation
Termites are so dangerous, in part, because they are so simple to ignore. When termites infest your home, these aggressive insects can nibble away for months before you notice anything is amiss.
To prevent significant damage to your home, be aware of the telltale signs of a termite infestation. Keep a watch out for the following indicators of termites:
- Discarded wings: When termites swarm, they will lose their wings and form a colony. Discarded wings are frequently discovered near sources of light, like window sills and doorways.
- Droppings: Termite droppings, also known asfrass, resemble little heaps of sawdust or salt and pepper.
- Mud tubes: Termites dislike the sun and need water to live. Mud tubes are common in garages, crawlspaces, and basements and are frequently the first indication of a termite infestation.
- Hollow-sounding walls: Knock on wooden structures and walls in your home. A hollow sound indicates an infestation.
Peeling or bubbling paint, tiny round holes in drywall, and swelling walls/floors are all indicators of an infestation.
Let Jerry find your price in only 45 seconds
No spam · No long forms · No fees
Are termites a problem in Delaware?
Yes, most Delaware homes are vulnerable to termite infestations, as evidenced by the US Forest Service's map of
Termite Infestation Probability Zones
.Learning about termites is an unpleasant but unavoidable part of being a good homeowner in Delaware. Here are the two most prevalent termite species in Delaware, as well as when to anticipate them.
Subterranean termites
When it comes to termites, these are the true villains. Subterranean termites create enormous underground colonies before entering your home through the foundation, leaving only a path of spindly mud tubes in their path.
From March through May, the eastern subterranean termite swarms during the day, whereas the dark southeastern subterranean termite swarms during the day between March and June.
Drywood termites
Although drywood termites do not naturally swarm in Delaware, they can migrate through wooden things such as furniture and wine crates and establish colonies in the state.
A trained termite inspector can help identify species that are not local to the state.
What to do if you have termites
Termite infestations are difficult to eradicate, but there are a variety of options available if you see the telltale symptoms.
When it comes to professional solutions, there are essentially three options to consider:
- Bait stations: This is the least invasive termite elimination method. Little plastic containers are left around your property to attract and kill termites. It takes months to work but is less disruptive than other treatments.
- Liquid pesticide barrier: A chemical termiticide moat can be dug around the perimeter of your property to eliminate subterranean termites.
- Fumigation: Major infestations require fumigation. Exterminators cover the house with a tent and inject a gas that kills all termites. Your entire family, including pets, must leave the house for 24 hours.
6 Ways to Cope with Income Loss due to Coronavirus
The Coronavirus pandemic has led to income losses for many, but there are 6 ways that help you cope
7 A.I. Companies That Can Save You $7,000 a Year for Free
Emerging A.I. technology is powering a revolution that allows people to save like never before.
Geico Policyholders Use This App to Save $853
Can a crusading app based on artificial intelligence stop insurance companies from Rickrolling? The answer: Yes.
How to save money on homeowners insurance
Unfortunately, most
homeowners insurance
policies do not cover termite damage. The simplest method to guard against an infestation is to be familiar with the common symptoms.When it comes to other risks, however, you can depend on your homeowners insurance—which is why having the finest policy is critical. By using the Jerry app, you can ensure that you're getting the greatest deal on the insurance you require (while also saving money on
auto insurance
!).Jerry
, a licensed insurance broker, is an expert at obtaining the best insurance rates for drivers and homeowners. Simply download the app, provide your info, and Jerry will link you with quotes from 50+ leading insurance companies in seconds.You won't have to waste time comparing rates or filling out paperwork. Jerry will handle all of the legwork to get you signed up, and you'll get all of the benefits with none of the effort!
“Jerrywas wonderful! I used it for my auto and renters policies. I trusted it so much that I signed up my homeowners insurance under Jerry as well. All of the agents are amazingly nice and knowledgeable.” —Mary Y.
FAQs
Do most homes in Delaware have termites?
Unfortunately, yes. According to the Termite Infestation Probability Zones (TIP Zones), Delaware lies in TIP Zone #2 (moderate to heavy), indicating that termite damage is probable.
How often should you treat for termites in Delaware?
The treatment intervals are determined by the type of treatment used. Bait stations must be inspected every few months, although liquid treatments can last up to five years before needing to be re-treated.
Save an average of 18% by bundling your home and auto insurance
Bundle your home and auto insurance with Jerry and save!
4.7
