Here comes the rain.... and the termites

MANILA, Philippines - With the rainy season comes termite infestation.

“They love the rainy weather. It is ideal condition for them. Subterranean termites swarm in the rainy season, but they are most likely to swarm if the moisture level on the atmosphere is high and the climate is humid,” says Jay Adalla, entomologist and sales and marketing officer of Sumitomo Chemical Philippines, Inc. (SCPI).

When there is rain, it is highly possible that at least one species of termites is beginning to establish a new colony in the area.

In areas with a distinct dry season like the Philippines, a change in the humidity and moisture level will encourage them to swarm. A telltale sign that there is infestation inside a home is the appearance of hundreds of discarded wings on or around windowsills because termites will attempt to get outside of the nest to swarm and find a mate to establish another colony.

Termites can quickly invade wood found in nearby garages and fences and then slowly make their way into homes as the colony grows. Constructed mud tunnels and runways are a clear sign that a structure is infested.

Considered home’s worst enemies termites often infest buildings and damage lumber, wood panels, wooden flooring, wallpaper, paper products and fabrics made of plant fibers. The most serious damage results from the loss of structural strength. Other costly losses include attacks on flooring, carpeting, art work, books, clothing, furniture, and valuable documents.

“Especially these rainy days, homeowners need to be vigilant to avoid attracting termites. Moisture and wood act like magnets for termites and you can prevent that by taking a few simple home maintenance steps,’’ Adalla said.

Among these DIY (do-it-yourself) measures: fix leaky pipes, eliminate standing water near your home, keep gutters and downspouts free of accumulated leaves and debris which can lead to clogs and moisture, and seal all cracks and holes in the home’s foundation.

Adalla advises protecting homes from termites with an annual check-up: “Selecting a pest management expert must be done as carefully as you would any other service professional you invite into your home, such as a plumber or electrician,” he says.

The revolutionary termite baiting system Xterm does not flood the environment with chemicals and uses only baiting cartridges that are installed inside the house or underground to eradicate the entire colony. Conventional treatments often involve drilling and pumping large volumes of chemical into the soil with a variety of associated damaging effects. Baits are ideal for all situations especially to those who may be sensitive to insecticide use.  

“The aim is to stop infestation before it’s too late. It’s the kind of home invasion that is certainly not welcome, rain or shine,” Adalla added.