Are you worried that your home might have a termite infestation?
If so, you’re not alone. Termites cause more than $5 billion in property damage in the US every year. This makes them one of the most destructive invasive species on the planet.
Indeed, termites can do serious damage to the wooden components of your home if you’re not careful. The problem is that many people don’t realize that an infestation is occurring until it’s too late.
But, you can protect yourself from this type of financial burden in the future! You must learn the signs of a termite infestation and catch the problem before it destroys your home.
Visible Presence of Swarmers
One of the most evident signs of a termite infestation is the presence of swarmers or winged termites. These reproductive termites emerge from mature colonies. They are in search of new areas to establish nests.
The swarming often occurs during the spring or early summer when the weather is warm and humid. The sight of these winged insects around your windows, doors, or light sources is a strong sign that you have a termite infestation.
It’s important to note that swarmers are poor fliers and are attracted to light. So you may find them clustered around windows or light fixtures.
If you see swarmers indoors, it suggests that termites have already established a colony within your home. But, outdoor swarming indicates the proximity of a termite colony.
Mud Tubes
Termites construct mud tubes to maintain a moist environment. They use these to protect themselves from predators. These tubes, often the width of a pencil, are made of soil, wood particles, and termite saliva.
They serve as passageways between the soil and the structure of your home. These allow termites to access their food source without getting exposed. If you find mud tubes along the foundation walls, wooden beams, or crawl spaces, it is a strong sign of termite activity.
Breaking open these tubes may reveal worker termites inside. This will confirm the presence of an active infestation. To get rid of termites and prevent further damage, it is important to click for pest control services.
Hollow-Sounding Wood
Termites feed on wood from the inside out, leaving a thin layer of wood or paint intact on the surface. When you tap on an infested wooden surface, it may produce a hollow or papery sound due to the absence of solid wood. This can be particularly noticeable when tapping on doors, window frames, or wooden furniture.
If you suspect termite damage, try tapping on various wooden structures in your home. This way, you can check for any signs of hollowness.
But, it’s important to note that hollow-sounding wood alone may not confirm an infestation. You may need further investigation.
Frass or Termite Droppings
Termite droppings, known as frass, are tiny wood-colored pellets that termites expel from their nests. These droppings resemble sawdust or coffee grounds. They are typically found near termite-infested areas.
If you come across small piles of frass around wooden structures, it is a clear sign that termites are active nearby. But, frass may not always be visible. This is especially if termites are nesting in hard-to-reach areas.
It’s important to regularly inspect potential termite-prone areas to identify any signs of frass. These include crawl spaces, attics, and basements.
Discarded Wings
After swarmers find a suitable location for a new colony, they shed their wings as they no longer need them. Do you find discarded termite wings near windowsills, doorways, or other light sources? If so, this is a strong sign that termites have already established a colony inside your home.
These discarded wings are typically equal in length and resemble fish scales. If you come across these wings, especially in large numbers, it suggests that a termite colony is nearby. Prompt action should be taken to investigate and address the infestation.
Tight-Fitting Doors and Windows
Termites can cause wooden frames and structures to warp or become misshapen. As they feed on the wood and release moisture, it can lead to swelling and distortion of the affected areas.
If you notice doors or windows that are suddenly difficult to open or close, it could be a sign of termite damage. The warping may result in misalignment or sticking of the doors and windows.
Other factors can also cause this issue. But, it is worth inspecting the wooden components for signs of termites. This is especially if other indicators are present.
Presence of Tunnels
Termites create tunnels, also known as galleries, within the wood or in the soil. These tunnels serve as protected pathways for termites to move between their nests and food sources.
When inspecting wooden structures, you may come across these intricate tunnels. They’re packed with soil, feces, and termite secretions.
The presence of tunnels is a clear sign of termite activity and indicates an ongoing infestation. It’s important to address the infestation as soon as possible. This way, you can prevent further home damage to the affected structures.
Sagging Floors and Ceilings
When termites cause significant damage to the structural components of your home, it can result in sagging floors or ceilings. The weakened wooden beams or supports can no longer bear the weight. This leads to visible signs of drooping or bowing.
If you notice such deformities in your home, you must investigate for possible termite infestation. Sagging floors and ceilings are often indicative of long-term termite damage.
You should take immediate action to address the infestation. You must also repair the affected areas to prevent further structural deterioration.
Don’t Let a Termite Infestation Cause Extensive Damage to Your Home
Termite infestations can cause significant damage to your home. Be sure to check for the signs of an infestation. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
If you spot any of these signs, contact a pest control expert immediately. Do not let termites cause thousands of dollars in damage to your home. Schedule a termite inspection with a professional today.
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