South Carolina is no stranger to termite issues!

Termites are a common problem in South Carolina, as they thrive in the warm and humid climate of the region. If you are a home or business owner, you should know what to be aware of when dealing with termite activity in South Carolina. Several types of termites can be found in the state, including subterranean and drywood. If you are having termite issues in South Carolina here are a few things to know:

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites are the most common type of termite in South Carolina and can cause significant damage to homes and other structures. There are Eastern and Formosan subterranean termites. They typically enter buildings through cracks in the foundation or other openings in the construction and feed on wood, causing structural damage over time.

Drywood Termites

Drywood termites, on the other hand, infest dry wood and do not require contact with soil to survive. They are less common in South Carolina but can still cause damage to homes and other wooden structures.

I can’t tell if I have flying ants or termites.

Flying ants and termites are often mistaken for each other because they have similar physical characteristics and behaviors. However, some key differences between flying ants and termites can help you distinguish between them.

Physical Characteristics:

Flying ants have bent or elbowed antennae, while termites have straight antennae.
The wings of flying ants are different in size and shape, with the front wings being larger than the hind wings. In termites, both pairs of wings are the same size and shape.
Flying ants have narrow waists, while termite waists are broader.

Behavior of ants vs termites:

Flying ants are attracted to light and are often seen flying around lights at night. Termites, on the other hand, are not attracted to light and are rarely seen flying around outdoor lights.
Flying ants typically swarm during the summer months, while termites usually swarm in spring.

What do I do if I suspect a termite infestation?

If you suspect that you have a termite infestation in your South Carolina home or business, it is important to contact a pest control professional as soon as possible. They can assess the extent of the infestation and recommend the best course of action to eliminate the termites and prevent further damage.

Trusted South Carolina Termite Prevention

Hilton Head Exterminators has been preventing termites in homes and businesses since 1968. We evaluate each location and discuss the best protection options with builders and homeowners. Termites cause billions of dollars in homes and commercial properties every year, and we make it our mission to protect you from being part of those statistics. Along with the best termite control and protection, we also offer termite warranties. Contact us for a free estimate, and let us help you protect your Lowcountry home from termites in Hilton Head and surrounding areas.