Swoim...swoirm...swoirmm....

May 25, 2009 7:57 PM

I have swarming formosan termites in between my kitchen window and the screen. I duct-taped the most obvious openings for them, and turned out the lights. What else should I do before the exterminator arrives tomorrow?

I think I've caught it fairly early--this particular swarm, at least--since only 15-20 or so have gotten in the house so far. Luckily, we're renting.

posted by umbú to Home & Garden (2 answers total)

Best answer: I had Terminex out last week for their annual inspection and he was telling me that the swarming termites lose their wings and die within 24 hours, so you should be fine.
posted by govtdrone at 4:47 AM on May 26, 2009 [1 favorite]

The swarming termites are usually a sign you have had an active colony for some time. There is most likely damage, but the exterminator might help you figure out just how bad it is. You should definitely check outside the house to see if you can find out where they're coming in. Also, definitely get multiple estimates; in my experience Terminix and Orkin were unbelievably higher compared to some of the other providers. Best of luck.
posted by arimathea at 7:19 AM on May 26, 2009