Termites in South Carolina

Termites in South Carolina are some of the most destructive pests in the Southern United States. They burrow into the wood of homes and businesses, often unnoticed. Different types of termites behave in different ways, but all are capable of wreaking damage to your property.

To help you identify South Carolina termites and protect your home or business against them, we’ve created this reference. Hopefully, this quick primer will help you reduce the number of termites you encounter. When you need help, call in the pros at Gregory. We identify, eliminate, and prevent all types of termites in South Carolina.

Termite Activity in South Carolina

South Carolina’s warm and humid weather means termites are active all year. Three main types—subterranean, drywood, and Formosan termites—live here, and each brings its own risks to homes and businesses.

Subterranean termites are the most common  type. They build large underground colonies, sometimes with up to two million termites, and use mud tubes to reach wood above ground. These pests thrive in South Carolina’s moist soil and can cause serious damage if left unchecked.

Drywood termites like dry wood in places such as attics, door frames, and furniture. Their colonies are smaller, usually about 2,500 termites, but they can go unnoticed for years while slowly damaging wood and furniture.

Formosan termites, sometimes called "super termites," are the most aggressive type. Their colonies can house several million termites and can eat a 2×4 foot of wood in just 25 days. They attack wooden components of buildings, trees, shrubs, and even wooden boats, making them a major threat in South Carolina.

In South Carolina, termite swarming season usually starts in spring and can last until November. Swarmers, which are winged termites that start new colonies, come out after rain on warm days. If you see flying termites or find their wings near your home, it likely means termites are close by.

Because termites pose a year-round risk, it’s important to get regular inspections and take steps to prevent them. If you think you have termite damage, call a professional right away to protect your property.

What is a Subterranean Termite?

The subterranean termite is by far the most destructive of the termites in the South. Their colonies are divided into castes of workers, reproducers and soldiers. Soldier termites have huge mandibles that protect workers as they go to work destroying wood. While small, the damage they can inflict can add up quickly.

These termites live in colonies underground and in moist, secluded places above ground. In the spring, the swarm and the reproductive go off to form new colonies. Their colonies are vast and can have as many as two million members!

What is a Drywood Termite?

As their name suggests, drywood termites do not prefer moist wood like the Subterranean or the Formosan termite. Instead, they favor dry wood like you might find in attic joists or supporting structural walls.

Drywood termites can cause expensive damage without you even knowing it. Their colony size is small compared to the two other species discussed, only averaging 2,500 members per colony. Their ability to burrow into secondhand furniture and picture frames makes them dangerous spreaders. Inspect any used furniture or decorations carefully before you bring them into your home.

What is a Formosan Termite?

The Formosan termite is also known as the “super termite” because of its destructive tendencies.

Their colonies average an impressive 350,000 members but can number in range of several million! Within 25 days, the average colony of Formosan termites can consume one foot of 2×4 wood.

Formosan termites in South Carolina are known to infest not only structures, but also places like shrubs, trees and even boats. They can chew through wood, flooring and wallpaper while going undetected for long periods.

When Do Termites Swarm in South Carolina?

Termites begin swarming in the spring and can continue into November. “Swarmers” are winged termites that fly to new locations to mate and establish new colonies. If you see termites with wings around your property, there’s a good chance they want to move in.

Termites typically swarm after rainfall on warm days and evenings. You may notice them or the wings they discard once they decide on a nesting location.

How to Prevent Termites

Prevention techniques will vary based on the type of termite, but these general tips will help you keep an eye out for all types of South Carolina termites:

• Keep mulch beds at least 15 inches away from foundation.
• Install gutters, downspouts and water blocks around the house. Repair any leaky faucets or AC pipes to prevent moisture buildup.
• Avoid wood-to-ground contact around the perimeter of your home.
• Properly ventilate crawlspaces and attics. Watch for signs of an infestation.
• Store firewood at least 20 feet from your house and 5 inches off the ground.
• Regularly check the foundation of your home for mud tubes. Check attics, windowsills and door frames for holes and hollowed out wood.

Serious Termite Control in South Carolina

If you think you have a termite infestation, partner with Gregory, your trusted pest control professionals. Our experts have years of experience providing termite control for residential and commercial properties in South Carolina. These pests can be extremely hard to get rid of on your own. We have several plans and packages that will help protect your home.