Termites are one of the most destructive pests homeowners can face, especially in a warm and humid state like North Carolina. If you live here, understanding what termites look like, where they live, and how they cause damage is key to protecting your home and property.
What do termites look like?
Termites are small, soft-bodied insects, often mistaken for ants.
Eastern Subterranean Termites
Color: Creamy white to dark brown or black (depending on caste)
Size: About 1/8 to 3/8 inch long
Wings: Swarmers (reproductive termites) have two pairs of equal-length wings.
You can find some excellent additional info here:
https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/biology-behavior-of-eastern-subterranean-termites
https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/monitoring-management-of-eastern-subterranean-termites
Where do termites live?
Termites live in colonies that can contain thousands or even millions of individuals. Their preferred habitats include:
Soil: Especially moist, loose soil around your foundation
Wood: Inside walls, crawlspaces, attics, and wooden decks
Tree Stumps & Dead Trees: Often used as a bridge into your home
Subterranean termites build mud tubes to travel from their colony to their food source. These tubes are often seen on foundations or basement walls.
Why termites love North Carolina
North Carolina’s climate is ideal for termites. Here’s why:
Warm Temperatures: Most termite activity begins when temperatures consistently rise above 70°F. North Carolina experiences this from spring through late fall.
High Humidity: Termites thrive in moist environments, and NC’s humid summers provide the perfect breeding ground.
Rainfall: Frequent rainfall softens the soil and encourages termite swarms, especially during spring and early summer.
Wood-Rich Environments: Many homes in NC are wood-framed or surrounded by wooded areas, giving termites easy access to food and shelter.
Because of these conditions, termite activity in North Carolina is year-round, with peak swarming in March through June.
What damage do termites cause?
Termites are known as “silent destroyers” because they can chew through wood, flooring, and even wallpaper undetected. Over time, they can cause serious structural damage.
Common signs of termite damage:
Hollow-sounding wood
Blistered or sagging floors
Bubbling paint or wallpaper (caused by moisture from termite activity)
Piles of wings near windows or doors
Mud tubes on walls, foundations, or crawl spaces
Cost of damage from termites
The average homeowner may spend thousands of dollars on termite damage repairs. And because damage often goes unnoticed for years, it can be extensive by the time it’s discovered. Unfortunately, most homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover termite damage.
Protecting your home from termites
Here are a few tips to reduce your risk of a termite infestation:
Keep gutters and downspouts clear to avoid water buildup
Eliminate wood-to-soil contact around your home
Repair leaky pipes and poor drainage
Store firewood away from your house
Have annual inspections by a licensed pest control professional, such as Pisgah!
If you suspect termite activity, don’t wait. Prompt professional termite treatment can prevent minor damage from becoming a major headache.
Living in North Carolina means enjoying beautiful forests and a mild climate – but it also means being vigilant against termites. By learning what they look like, where they live, and how they operate, you can take proactive steps to keep your home safe and termite-free.