FAIRFAX, Va .– (BUSINESS WIRE) – Termites cause more than $ 5 billion in property damage in the United States each year that is normally not covered by homeowner insurance. Because online engagement across America to find termites in the basement or foundation of the house has increased by 28% in the past three years *, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is taking advantage of Termite Awareness Week from May 7th to 13th March 2021. An annual observation recognized on Chase’s calendar of events as an opportunity to educate homeowners about the threats posed by termites.
“Termite damage can easily go unnoticed to the untrained eye,” said Cindy Mannes, senior vice president of public affairs at NPMA. “Known as ‘silent destroyers’ for their ability to chew through wood undetected, homeowners should have their property professionally inspected for termites once a year to prevent them from silently infestation and costly damage.”
While there are over 2,000 species of termites, NPMA shares information on the following five species that are found in the United States:
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Underground termites are the most destructive species in the United States, living in colonies of up to two million members underground or in humid, remote areas above the ground.
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Formosan termites are the most insatiable and, due to their aggressive nature, difficult to control when invading a structure.
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Dampwood termites infest wood with a high moisture content and are typically larger than other termite species.
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Dry wood termites infest dry wood and often nest in roofing materials and wall supports.
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Conehead termites are an invasive species and can go undetected for years as they don’t build nests until their colony is strong and healthy.
“Termites are not DIY pests,” added Mannes. “If you think you have an infestation, contact a pest control specialist right away.”
* The results of the online engagement are the result of research by Advanced Symbolics Inc.
Via the National Pest Management Association
The NPMA, a non-profit organization of more than 5,500 members, was founded in 1933 to support the pest control industry’s commitment to protecting public health, food and property from the disease and threat posed by pests. For more information, visit PestWorld.org or follow @PestWorld on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube.