Termites are an unfortunate risk no matter where you live in Ohio. Keep an eye out for one distinct species that can wreak havoc throughout your home.

If you own a property in Ohio, there are numerous things you should be aware of regarding termites, including how to identify an infestation, when to expect swarms, and what to do if your home has been infested with them.

Termites are a nuisance that no one wants to deal with, but they are a likely issue for homeowners in Ohio. If you don't pay attention to the warning signals, a termite infestation can cause thousands of dollars in damage to your house or apartment.

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How to tell if you have a termite infestation

One of the reasons termites are so devastating is that they are so easy to ignore. When termites infest your home, these active insects can nibble away in your home for months before you discover anything is wrong.

Be aware of the unmistakable indicators of a termite infestation to reduce serious damage to your house. Keep an eye out for the following termite warning signs:

Mud tubes: New mud tubes are brown, whereas older tunnels are brittle and gray. The discovery of tunnels in your basement or foundation should serve as a warning to search for damaged wood nearby.

Hollow-sounding walls: Knock on your house's walls and other wood structures. If you hear an unusual hollow sound, you could have an infestation.

Discarded wings: Finding their discarded wings indoors, particularly near windows, signals a major problem.

Droppings: Termite droppings, also known as

frass

, resemble little heaps of salt and pepper or sawdust.

Peeling paint, swollen walls or floors, and little round holes in drywall are also signs of this pest infestation.

Are termites a problem in Ohio?

Yes, most Ohio homes are susceptible to termite infestations—they are located in the moderate to heavy section of the US Forest Service's

Termite Infestation Probability Zones

map.

If you own a home in Ohio, understanding how to deal with termites is a necessary, but unpleasant part of being a responsible homeowner. Though there is only one main species you have to worry about, there is a risk for other types to sneak in as well.

Subterranean termites

This termite species dwells underground in colonies or aboveground in moist, quiet locations. They construct unique mud tubes to acquire access to food sources and to shield themselves from the elements.

In Ohio, the dark southeastern subterranean termite swarms between March and June, whereas the eastern subterranean termite swarms from March to May.

Drywood termites

Drywood termites, as the name suggests, eat dry wood, which is commonly found in crawl spaces or other dry areas of your home. It is possible for drywood termites, a species that is not native to Ohio, to enter the state via wooden objects like furniture or wine crates and start a colony.

A professional termite inspector can be hired to identify species that are not naturally found in Ohio.

What to do if you have termites

If you suspect a termite problem, there are several things you may do to get rid of the pests.

When it comes to professional solutions, there are three options worth considering:

Bait stations: This is the least invasive approach of traditional termite extermination. These small plastic containers, placed by the exterminator, will attract and kill termites. Results take months, but it's far less disruptive.

Liquid pesticide barrier: To kill subterranean termites, you can dig a trench around your home and construct a chemical termiticide moat.

Fumigation: For huge infestations, fumigation is the only choice. Exterminators cover a building with a tent and inject a gas that kills all termites. You and your entire family, including pets, must depart the premises for at least 24 hours.

How to save money on homeowners insurance

The majority of

homeowners' insurance

policies do not cover damage from termites. Knowing the signs and symptoms of an infestation is the best line of defense.

Fortunately, your homeowner's insurance will cover the majority of the other risks. The

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Jerry will take care of all the phone calls, paperwork, and renewals for your preferred option after presenting you with a full cross-analysis of the best plans across providers. Jerry can assist you in saving even more money by bundling your home and auto insurance policies.

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FAQs

Do most homes in Ohio have termites?

Unfortunately, yes. It’s likely that, if you live in Ohio, you’ll have a termite swarm at least once in your lifetime. And because infestations can lie undetected for years, the problem can get worse over time as well.

How often should you treat for termites in Ohio?

There are a variety of treatments available, each with its own set of treatment intervals. Every few months, you should check your bait stations; however, liquid treatments can last for up to five years before requiring another treatment.

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