10 Common Signs Of Termite Infestation: What To Look For In Your Home
Posted on: 13 March 2023
If you're like most homeowners, you already know that termites are one of the most destructive pests that can infest a home, causing damage to the structure and resulting in costly repair bills. Fortunately, strategies exist to mitigate the damage these insects are able to cause. Early detection is key to preventing extensive damage, but how do you know if you have a termite problem? Many homeowners don't notice signs of a termite infestation until it's too late.
The following are 10 common signs of termite infestation to look for in your home.
Discarded Wings
During swarming season, termites will shed their wings after finding a mate. Look for discarded wings around windows, doors, and other entry points — this is a clear sign of termite infestation.
Mud Tubes
Subterranean termites build mud tubes to protect themselves as they move between their nest and food source. Look for mud tubes along the foundation of your home, on walls, or in crawl spaces.
Hollow Wood
Termites eat wood from the inside out, leaving a hollowed-out appearance. Tap on walls, baseboards, and furniture to see if they sound hollow.
Blistered Wood
Termites can cause wood to blister or bubble as they eat through it. This can cause paint to bubble or peel on walls or ceilings.
Damaged Flooring
Termites can cause the flooring to become uneven or sag as they eat through the subfloor.
Tight-Fitting Doors and Windows
As termites eat through wood, it can cause doors and windows to become tight-fitting or difficult to open and close.
Buckling Wood
Buckling or warped wood can be a sign of moisture damage, which can attract termites.
Visible Termite Workers
If you see small, pale insects with straight antennae, they may be termite workers. These insects are typically about a ¼ inch in length.
Drywall Damage
Termites can cause drywall to become warped, discolored, or have a rippled appearance.
Termite Frass
Drywood termites push their fecal matter out of tiny holes in the wood they infest, leaving behind a powdery substance called frass. Look for frass near baseboards, walls, or in attics.
If you notice any of these signs of termite infestation in your home, it's important to contact a professional termite exterminator. Early detection and treatment can prevent extensive damage and save you from costly repairs in the future. Your local termite extermination service can also provide you with helpful information on how to minimize termite activity in and around your home.
For more information, contact a company like TORCO™ Termite and Pest Control Company.
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