Nobody likes to deal with termite infestations as they can compromise a property’s structural integrity and result in thousands of dollars in repairs. Termites are adept at hiding, and by the time you notice you have an infestation, it could be too late. However, there are various signs that point towards termite damage, and homeowners should be aware of these indicators to get rid of them.
Damaged Wood
Substantial wood damage beneath or behind your home’s walls, floors, or other surfaces is an indication that termites are consuming the wood in quest of cellulose, leaving large grooves behind. As a result of these grooves, the wood becomes hollow with a honeycomb structure inside and produces an empty sound when knocked. Such grooves can cause severe damage to the wood and reduce the building’s structural strength.
Frass
Termite droppings, also known as frass, are an indication of drywood termites. While digging the wood they infest, drywood termites create pathways and try to keep them clean. They accomplish that by making kick-out holes where they dispose of their feces. As drywood termites only consume wood, their excrement mainly comprises wood and takes the shape of pellet mounds. These pellet mounds indicate the presence of termites.
Mud Tubes
Mud tubes, a clear indication of a termite infestation, usually emerge from the ground and run along the walls of your home. If termites have built mud tubes in your area, destroying such tubes or wiping away the soil is not enough to get rid of termites. It is better to engage a professional pest control company to eradicate them.
Termites require specific temperatures and humidity levels to survive. These tubes aid in blocking chilly, dry air, ultimately transforming your house into a breeding ground for termites.
Swarms or Discarded Wings
Discarded or damaged wings are one of the first signs of termite infestation. When a swarm of termites matures, the winged termites leave the nest to establish a new colony. When these winged termites choose a new location for their nest, they deliberately twist their wings off near windows, doors, and other access points of your home. If you find these wings anywhere around your house, it is suggested to call for professional help immediately.
Head Banging
When searching for termites, try to listen to a gentle clicking sound inside your home’s walls. Termite soldiers frequently make such noises by slamming their heads against the wood or trembling their bodies. If a colony is agitated or disturbed, these unusual noises serve as a warning signal to other termites.
Bubbles in Paint
Termite damage to wall paint is almost identical to water damage. As termites nibble away the wood from the inside of walls, bubbles start to emerge in the paintwork. As a result, the walls’ structural integrity is jeopardized, resulting in paint or plaster cracks.
Outdoor Infestation
It’s tempting to dismiss an outdoor infestation since it doesn’t damage your home directly, yet termite-infested trees can be hazardous. A tree can fall on your house, lawn, or garden if it is severely damaged. Termite damage can be seen in the form of tiny holes and wood shavings in the trees surrounding your home. An infestation outside your home suggests that termites might try to come inside when they get a chance.
Recurrent Short Circuits
Recurrent short circuits also indicate a termite infestation. Termites are attracted to the warmth of electrical connections and can chew multiple wires to cause an electrical hazard. Examining your electrical fittings and power points regularly is an excellent way to identify termite presence.
Stuck Windows & Bent Doors
Stuck windows and bent doors, which are often linked with hot or moist conditions, can also indicate a termite infestation. In our homes, the majority of doors, windows, and frames are still built from wood. These structures are termites’ primary target as they can easily access from beneath or outside the house. Due to the moisture produced by termites at the time of eating and burrowing, the wood distorts, making it challenging for us to use doors and windows properly.
Conclusion
It’s critical to pay attention to these early warning signs if you want to keep your home free of termites. A practical solution for detecting and eradicating termites is to acquire the services of a registered termite control company. Their technicians are trained to detect even the minute signs of termite activity, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in repairs and eradication.