Termite infestations can cause extreme damage to homes and buildings, often going unnoticed until the damage becomes severe. Termites are silent destroyers, and understanding what to look for is crucial to protecting your property.
But how do you know if you have a termite infestation, and what does a termite infestation look like? Let’s explore the common signs of a termite infestation, how to treat a termite infestation and ways to prevent a termite infestation.
Prevention techniques might not be enough if you’re already dealing with a termite infestation in your home. Our pest control professionals provide a customized solution to protect your home effectively. Get a free estimate!
What Are the Signs of a Termite Infestation?
Detecting a termite infestation early can save you from costly repairs. Here are a few signs of a termite infestation:1. Mud Tubes
Mud tubes are usually one of the most common signs of a termite infestation. These pencil-sized tubes are constructed by subterranean termites to travel. Mud tubes provide moisture and protection for termites as they move between the soil and the wood they are feeding on. You’ll typically find these tubes on exterior walls, foundation walls, or even in crawl spaces. If you spot mud tubes around your property, it’s a strong indication that termites are nearby.2. Discarded Wings
Another sign of a termite infestation is the presence of wings. Termites swarm during mating season to mate and start new colonies. After swarming, they shed their wings, which can often be found near windows, doors, or other light sources. These wings are often mistaken for those of flying ants, but termite wings are uniform in size, unlike ant wings, which have a larger pair in the front. Discovering a pile of these wings indoors or outdoors should prompt a closer inspection for other signs of termites.
3. Hollow-Sounding Wood
Termites consume wood from the inside out. They often leave a thin veneer of timber or paint on the surface. This hollowing effect can be detected by tapping on the wood. If the wood sounds hollow or even gives way when you tap it, it could be a sign of termite damage. In some cases, the surface may appear blistered or peeling, particularly in painted wood surfaces. This occurs because termites have eaten away the wood beneath, causing the paint or surface veneer to warp.4. Frass (Termite Droppings)
Frass, or termite droppings, is another key indicator of a termite infestation. Drywood termites, which live inside the wood they consume, create small kick-out holes to push their droppings out of their galleries. These droppings look like tiny pellets and can often be found in small piles near the infested wood. Unlike common dust or sawdust, frass is usually light brown or black and has a distinct granular texture. If you see frass, it’s a clear sign that termites have made themselves at home in your woodwork. If you feel things have gone out of control, it is advised to contact pest control professionals. Our team can provide a customized approach to protect your home effectively.5. Tight-Fitting Doors and Windows
As termites consume wood, they create moisture in the wood, causing it to swell. This swelling can make it hard to move doors or windows in their frames. While this problem is often attributed to humidity, it’s wise to consider termites as a potential cause, especially if other signs are present.
6. Damaged or Crumbling Wood
Visible damage to wood, such as crumbling, splintered, or cracked wood, is a late-stage sign of termite activity. This damage is often accompanied by other signs like mud tubes or frass. If you notice wood that seems to be deteriorating faster than normal, particularly in areas that are otherwise dry, it could be due to termites. Pay special attention to wooden structures that are in contact with the soil, as these are prime targets for subterranean termites.7. Clicking Noises in the Walls
Believe it or not, termites can be noisy. Soldier termites use their heads to close the wood opening or shake their bodies when the colony is disturbed. This can create a faint clicking or rattling sound within the walls. If you hear unusual sounds, particularly at night when the house is quiet, it might be worth investigating for termites.How to Treat a Termite Infestation
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Termite Baits: Place bait stations around your property to attract and poison termites.
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Liquid Termiticides: Apply chemical barriers in the soil to block and kill termites.
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Nematodes: Introduce these microscopic worms into the soil to target termites naturally.
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Fumigation: Effective for drywood termites; it eliminates termites in an entire structure.
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Soil Treatments: Subterranean termites are tackled with treated soil barriers around the property.
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Wood Treatments: Application of borate-based solutions to existing wood to deter termites.
