Termites are the most commonly found wood-destroying insects in Maryland. If overlooked, they can cause significant structural damage to a house or wooden structure. In fact, termites cause billions of dollars in damage to homes in the United States each year. Here’s everything to know about termites in Maryland.
Termites in Maryland
Maryland’s termites pose a significant threat to homeowners, so it is crucial to identify signs of infestations, conduct regular inspections, and seek professional treatment for adequate protection.
Types of Termites in Maryland
In Maryland, there are four main types of termites commonly found in the Old Line State.
Photo Credit: Ryan Watson / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0
- Eastern subterranean termite (Reticulitermes flavipes): This native species is the most common type of termite in Maryland. Eastern subterranean termites are notorious for causing significant damage to wooden structures. They travel to their food sources from their underground nests via termite tubes, aka mud tunnels.
Photo Credit: Gerald J. Lenhard, Louisiana State University, Bugwood.org / Wikipedia / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Dark southeastern subterranean termite (Reticulitermes virginicus): Being a subterranean termite species, they live underground and travel through mud tunnels to find food. Dark brown in color, these termites look similar to ants, and often, the two are mixed up. Dark southeastern subterranean termites are widespread through many eastern states from Maryland down to Florida.
- Light southeastern subterranean termites (Reticulitermes hageni): As the name suggests, light southeastern subterranean termites are lighter in color than their dark cousins, but their colony development is very similar. R. hageni will attack lumber more often than decomposing wood like tree stumps. While not common in Maryland, these termites are common in nearby Virginia and West Virginia.
- Reticulitermes malletei: This is a recently named subterranean termite species that has been found in Maryland and can be treated the same as other subterranean termites.
Photo Credit: Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
- Drywood termites (Incisitermes minor): While they aren’t native to Maryland, drywood termites can still be found here, though it’s rare. Unlike subterranean termites, they don’t require contact with the soil to thrive. These termites can enter homes through termite-infested furniture or wooden items brought into the house.
Note: A few other wood-boring insects look like termites. You can identify what’s eating your house by getting an inspection from a termite pro.
Signs of Termites in Maryland
To protect your home from termites, watch for telltale signs that termites are active around your property. If you notice any of the following signs around your home, it’s recommended to get a termite inspection by a professional termite control company to prevent infestation and stop further damage.
Signs of termite activity in Maryland include:
- Mud tubes on exterior walls or foundations
- Discarded wings near windowsill or doors
- Frass (termite droppings) that resemble sawdust or tiny wood pellets
- Hollow-sounding wood beams or posts
- Sagging floors or signs of termites in the ceiling, such as discoloration
- Bubbled paint along walls
- Tiny holes, which can indicate termites in drywall
How Common Are Termites in Maryland?
Termites are a common problem in Maryland, especially along the coast, where high moisture attracts them. Many households battle infestations every year. If left untreated, these voracious pests can cause severe damage to homes, decks, and fences.
To prevent costly termite damage repairs and preserve the integrity of your home, it is important to watch for signs of termites and schedule regular termite inspections. Quick treatment of termite infestations is essential in preventing further damage to your home.
When Do Termites Swarm in Maryland?
Termites typically swarm on a warm day following a rain, often between March and May. However, when termites swarm often depends on the species and time of year.
- March to May: Eastern subterranean termites swarm during spring.
- March to June: Dark southeastern subterranean termites swarm in early summer.
- August to October: Light southeastern subterranean termites come out to swarm in the fall.
Treating Termites in Maryland
While DIY termite treatments are available, they may not be as effective as a professional treatment. Home remedies like using borax to kill termites can be effective but may take a while and need several applications. Another option is using orange oil, which can work well for drywood termites but not for subterranean termites.
If you suspect a termite infestation on your Maryland property, it’s recommended that you consult a professional termite control company for proper identification and treatment.
The type of termite and colony size will determine the best way to treat an infestation as well as the cost of the termite treatment. Baits and chemical treatments are commonly used to control subterranean termites.
- Bait: Food sources are laced with poison and carried back to the termite colony.
- Chemical: A termite control professional applies termiticide to the soil around an infested area.
How to Prevent Termites in Maryland
Preventing termites is the most cost-effective method for protecting your property from these voracious eaters. Here are a few steps you can take to prevent termites in your Maryland home.
- Ensure good drainage: Most termites need moisture to survive, so keeping your yard free of standing water can keep them at bay. Properly maintain your gutters to prevent water from accumulating.
- Resolve water leaks: Repair any water issues or plumbing leaks as soon as possible. Termites are drawn to moisture, so sealing leaks can reduce the risk of luring termites into your home.
- Maintain proper ventilation: Check that your house has adequate ventilation, especially in crawl spaces and attics, to prevent excessive dampness that can attract termites.
- Get regular inspections: Since termites are a problem many Marylanders will have to deal with, it’s recommended that you schedule an inspection as soon as you see signs of termites in your home or at least once a year.
- Eliminate wood debris: Clear your property of any dead or zombie trees, wood scraps, and fallen tree limbs. Additionally, store logs on metal or concrete stands at least 30 feet from a wood structure to prevent termites in firewood.
- Seal access points: Termites can enter through gaps or cracks in your foundation, doors, and windowsills. It’s crucial to seal possible entry points to keep termites out.
FAQ: Termites in Maryland
Are Termites Active in Maryland During the Winter?
While they aren’t likely to swarm in wintertime, subterranean termites keep cozy in underground nests that protect them from freezing temperatures. But if they’ve already moved into your home, they can continue actively eating wood using mud tubes even in the winter, especially in warm areas of your home like a heated basement or crawl space.
Do Termites Swarm in the Fall in Maryland?
Yes. The light southeastern subterranean termites will swarm into October.
How Much is Termite Extermination in Maryland?
Most homeowners pay $558 on average for termite treatments, which typically range between $275 and $863. However, how much you pay overall will depend on the type of treatment used and the amount of property that has to be treated.
When to Call a Pro
It is recommended that you have a termite professional inspect your property for termites once a year in Maryland. This is due to the moderate to heavy termite population, climate, and easy access to food sources. By doing so, you can avoid a full-blown infestation and costly repairs.
If you spot signs of termite activity like discarded wings or termite tunnels, it’s best to contact a local termite control service right away.
Main Image Credit:
Maryland View: Sean Pavone / Canva Pro / License
Termites: ApisitWilaijit / Canva Pro / License
