6 Signs of Termites in Your Home
Do you find yourself on edge all the time? Fighting back feelings of nausea, exhaustion, or headaches? You may be starting to suspect that the cause for your maladies may come from somewhere inside your home.
Yet, these insects are very good at hiding before you even realize they’re there. You may find yourself asking yourself, “What do termites look like?” One thing that makes it even more difficult is how little these things actually look like termites.
Well, you’re in luck! Because we’re here to help you. Here’s a list of signs of termites, how to spot them, and how to get rid of termites before they get the better of you. Read along to learn more!
1. Mud Tubes
A mud tube is a small brown compartment made from the soil, wood, and saliva of the termite. These tunnels can be found attached to foundations, walls, and other structural elements of the home. Mud tubes provide shelter and protection for the termite from the environment, making them a good item to look for when attempting to determine if termites may be present in a structure.
Mud tubes also indicate a large concentration of termites, as they can form large, subterranean colonies. Because of this, they are often a sign that termite activity is rampant and increasing, and may require further investigation and/or treatment to prevent any further damage to the home or structure. Mud tubes are therefore an important sign for homeowners to consider when attempting to detect a termite problem.
2. Weakened Wood
Weakened wood is a telltale sign of termite infestations in and around your home. When termites consume wood it begins to weaken and become brittle, which can cause furniture, floors, and other structures to become structurally damaged. As termites consume the wood, they expel a fine sawdust-like dust, known as frass.
Structural damage from termites can be extremely costly if left untreated, so it is essential to inspect any wood in living spaces for signs of damage. It is also important to inspect the foundation around the home for any signs of increased moisture, which could indicate the presence of a termite nest. If you notice any signs of weakened wood in your home, it is best to call these pest exterminators to confirm the presence of termites and take proper action.
3. Discarded Wings
Discarded wings are a sure sign of termite activity inside your home because termites have wings specifically designed to help them fly away for mating. After they land, they discard their wings as they nest and look for food. During the swarming season, which is usually in late winter or early spring, “discarded wings” may be present around the outside of windows, doorways, and vents.
This is a sign that termites are present in your home and a destructive infestation may be taking place. These signs should not be quickly ignored, and an inspection by a certified pest control professional should always be done to determine the extent of the infestation.
Simple DIY methods and home remedies may help find the location of the termites, but only a professional can help assess the damage and their removal. Ignoring the problem can lead to costly repairs and possible health hazards.
4. Tiny Holes in Woods
Termites cause a vast amount of damage to wood by burrowing into it and feeding it. Tiny holes in the woods are the visible signs of a termite infestation. Once termites have infiltrated your home, they will eat their way through the wood until it is filled with holes and tunnels.
These holes are usually smaller than a fingertip, yet this small size is enough to be a sign of a termite issue. Tiny holes in the woods can signal the presence of termites in the house. If you find these holes in your furniture or walls, it is important to take proactive steps to get rid of them. This will help protect your home from further damage and costly repairs.
5. Signs of Bubbles or Cracking in Paint
Termites are very destructive pests and can cause significant damage to a home if not caught early on. The presence of bubbles or cracking in paint is often a telltale sign that the wood beneath it has been breached. Termites are attracted to damp wood and soft drywall and will oftentimes feed on these materials, leaving behind signs such as crumbly and softwood, bubbling paint, or cracking in paint.
These signs, when noticed, should be taken as a serious warning of a possible infestation and prompt action should be taken as quickly as possible to prevent the spread of the pests. By taking swift action and removing the pests, homeowners can reduce the chances of costly repairs and extensive damage to their homes.
6. Hollowed Wood
Termites cause considerable damage to wooden structures as they feed on cellulose material found in wood. They can quickly hollow out large sections of timber and cause structural problems that can be costly to repair. Termites may be found in attics, basements, and crawl spaces; any place where wood may be stored or used as part of the home’s structure.
The presence of hollowed wood is a sure sign that termites may be present and it is important to take steps to identify and get rid of the problem immediately. If the termite damage is extensive, professional pest control services may be required to help restore the home and fix the problem.
Get Familiar With These Signs of Termites Today
Termite infestations can be a serious problem if left untreated. If you notice any signs of termites in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company to inspect and assess the situation. Act quickly and contact a pest control expert today to prevent any further damage from occurring.
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