If you notice signs of termites, call a professional right away. Termites can cause costly damage to a home if they’re not treated, and the longer you wait, the worse the damage could be. In this article, we’ll explore the most common indicators of a termite infestation. As a homeowner, it’s essential to understand the signs and be ready to take action.
Hollowed or Damaged Wood
One of the most obvious signs of termites is damage to the wooden components of your home. This damage might appear in the form of hollowed-out wood or wood with sunken or depressed areas. You may notice the materials feel soft, or it sound hollow when you tap on them. This is a sign there are termites present, and they’ve weakened the wood in your home.
Noises in the Walls are Signs of Termites
Another sign of termites is if you hear strange noises coming from within the walls. Termites are noisy when they’re eating through wood, and soldier termites make tapping sounds to warn the colony if they sense danger. Noises from the walls are an indication you have termites at work. Though they may only be noticeable when the house is quiet, many homeowners report sounds of termites in the walls.
Termite Droppings (“Frass”)
Termites leave droppings, called “frass,” behind as they work. Frass is an obvious sign these insects have infested your house. Frass looks a lot like sawdust or piles of tiny pellets. You might notice this material outside small holes in wooden materials. Termites push frass out of the holes to clear the tunnels of waste. Call a pest control professional if you notice piles of frass around your home.
Peeling Paint
Another sign of termites is paint peeling away from the walls or areas of wallpaper that appear sunken. This type of damage happens because termites destroy the wood beneath the paint, leaving weakened materials to which the paint cannot adhere.
Termites also introduce moisture wherever they work, and this can cause wallpaper and paint to blister and peel away from the walls.
Discarded Wings are Signs of Termites
As a termite colony matures, some members fly away to find a place to establish a new colony. After settling into a new home, these termites shed their wings. If you see piles of wings around your home, it’s a good sign there are termites present.
Wings are often discarded in piles near entrances and openings. You might see them near a window or a utility opening in the exterior wall of your home. If you notice piles of tiny translucent wings, call a professional to inspect for termites and treat the infestation.
Mud Tubes
Termites are present if you see mud tubes on or near your house. These tubes are built and used by termites to travel from their nest to your home. Mud tubes are narrow and are often found on the foundation or trees on the property.
If you see any indications of these insects, it’s essential to call a professional immediately. Termites can cause expensive damage to a home if they’re not treated, and the sooner you get them taken care of, the better.
HomeSpec provides inspections to homebuyers and sellers in North Mississippi and Southwest Tennessee. Contact us to schedule an appointment.