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 as

frass

, 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.

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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.

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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.

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!

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MORE:

How to choose the right kind of home insurance for you

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.

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