Question 1

What does it mean if I see flying termites swarming?

Accepted Answer

A swarm of winged termites, especially in spring, is a strong sign of an active, established colony nearby — possibly already in or near the structure. Cleaning up the swarmers themselves doesn't solve anything; the colony that produced them still needs a full treatment.

Question 2

How do I know if my brick house has termites?

Accepted Answer

Brick veneer doesn't stop termites — it just hides the mud tubes better. Check weep holes along the base of the brick, hairline cracks in the mortar, and any spot where the foundation meets the brick line, since that's where tubes travel up unseen.

Question 3

Does homeowners insurance cover termite damage?

Accepted Answer

Almost never. Termite damage is classified as a preventable maintenance issue rather than a sudden or accidental event, so standard homeowners policies typically exclude it entirely. Ongoing prevention and a warrantied treatment plan are the real protection here, not an insurance claim.

Question 4

Should I treat for termites before pouring a slab for a new addition?

Accepted Answer

Yes — pre-treating exposed soil before the concrete goes down is the standard, cheaper approach. Treating around a finished slab afterward is possible but usually requires drilling into the concrete, which costs more and is more disruptive than doing it right the first time.

Termite Control in Durham, NC

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