Termites are often called “silent destroyers” because of their ability to eat away at the structural integrity of a home without making a sound. By the time most people realize they have a termite problem, the damage is already extensive. Recognizing the early signs of a termite infestation can not only save you thousands of dollars in repairs but also protect your family from potential hazards. Here are five critical signs of a termite infestation you should never overlook.
Mud Tubes Along Walls or Foundations
Mud tubes are one of the most distinctive signs of a termite infestation. These pencil-width tunnels, made of mud and saliva, are often found running along walls, foundations, or crawl spaces. Termites use these tubes for moisture control and to stay safe from predators while traveling between their colony and food source. If you spot these, it’s a glaring red flag. Take a closer look and break a small section open—if it’s active, you’ll likely find termites crawling inside.
Damaged or Hollow-Sounding Wood
One of the most significant risks of termite infestations is their love for cellulose, which is found in wood. Over time, termites eat away from the inside, leaving wood hollow while maintaining its outer appearance. A common way to detect this is by knocking lightly on beams, flooring, or furniture. If the wood sounds hollow, termites may have already moved in.
Bubbling or Uneven Paint
Strange irregularities in painted walls or ceilings can also indicate termite activity. Termites can create moisture behind walls as they feed, causing paint to bubble or crack. If you spot areas that look like water damage but have no apparent cause, consider the possibility of termites.
Loose or Stuck Windows and Doors
Many homeowners assume that tight-fitting doors or windows are caused by seasonal changes in humidity. While that may sometimes be the case, it’s also a common sign of termite damage. Termites can chew through window or door frames, causing structural distortion. Pay close attention if you notice sticking windows or suddenly misaligned door frames, especially if other signs of termites are present.
Termite Swarmers or Discarded Wings
Termite swarmers, also known as alates, are winged termites whose purpose is to reproduce and start new colonies. Swarmers make their appearance during warmer months, usually after rain. Finding one or two in your home might not be worrisome, but seeing several or finding piles of their discarded wings near doors, windowsills, or light sources suggests an active infestation. This occurs because swarmers shed their wings after finding a location to build a new colony.
Frass: Droppings That Look Like Sawdust
Termite droppings, known as frass, look like small wood-colored pellets and may appear like tiny piles of sawdust near floorboards, furniture, or walls. Unlike sawdust, however, this frass often symbolizes drywood termites, which leave behind these droppings as they tunnel through wood. Spotting frass is another clear indicator that termites are actively feeding on your home.
What Should You Do Next?
If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, it’s best to contact a professional pest control service immediately. While DIY solutions might address surface-level problems, termites are challenging to eliminate without professional tools and expertise. Companies offering reliable termite services can help assess your problem and provide long-term solutions to preserve your home.
Don’t Ignore These Signs
Termite infestations are not something you can afford to put off addressing. Identifying the warning signs early and taking immediate action can prevent extensive damage and save you money in the long run. Stay vigilant, and don’t hesitate to call for help if you suspect termites have taken up residence in your home. The sooner you act, the better chance you have at protecting your property and peace of mind.
