Are you concerned that you might have a termite infestation? Here are five warning signs to watch out for.
Termites are one of the most destructive pests that can wreak havoc on your home. Though seemingly harmless at first glance, these tiny insects can cause significant property damage if left unchecked. According to estimates by the National Pest Management Association, termites cause an estimated $5 billion worth of property damage annually in America alone, so being aware of the warning signs of a termite infestation in your house is vital for protection.
If you encounter any of these warning signs of termite infestation in your home, take action now and stop further damage. This article will outline the top 5 warning signs that could indicate a termite infestation and how to protect your property from its destructive effects.
Let’s take a deeper look into these destructive pests and discover how to effectively deal with them.
Table of Contents
- Swarming Termites
- Mud Tubes
- Hollow Wood
- Tight-Fitting Doors and Windows
- Blistered Wood
- Frass
- The Bottom Line
Swarming Termites
Swarming termites are a common indicator of an infestation. These reproductive termites emerge from their nests in search of food and may fly around your home or on the ground near its foundation.
If you see these pests, contact an experienced pest control professional immediately for dealing with pests; DIY solutions may not be as successful as seeking professional help. Professionals will inspect your home and create a treatment plan to eliminate the infestation and prevent future outbreaks.
Also Read: How to prevent termites? – Causes of termite in a house foundation
Mud Tubes
Mud tubes are an indicator of a termite infestation. These small tunnels made of mud serve as a pathway for termites to travel from their nests to food sources like wood, paper, and cardboard.
You may notice them on the exterior or inside your basement; left untreated they can cause significant structural damage to your property. Therefore, contact a pest control professional right away if you spot any mud tubes.
Hollow Wood
Termites feed on wood, and over time they can cause significant structural damage to your home’s structure. If you tap on walls or floorboards and they sound hollow, termite activity has already started. Having your home inspected by a professional pest control service is critical if you suspect termite activity.
They will identify the extent of destruction and create an effective treatment plan to eliminate the infestation. Ignoring signs of termite activity leads to expensive repairs as well as compromises the safety of your property – take action now and seek professional assistance to stop further infestation of termites!
Also Read: Wood Mites – How to get rid of wood mites? Types – Sizes – Home Remedies
Tight-Fitting Doors and Windows
Tight-fitting doors and windows can be indicative of termite activity. As termites eat through wood, they create moisture which causes the wood to swell and warp – making it difficult for doors and windows to open or close properly.
If you notice this in your home, get a professional inspection to identify the cause. Other factors like humidity or foundation settling could account for tight-fitting doors and windows as well; however, if termites have taken control, treatment will likely be necessary to prevent further structural damage to your house’s structure.
Blistered Wood
Termites can cause wood to warp, blister or bubble due to the moisture they create when eating through wood. If you spot these signs on your walls or floors it could be indicating a termite infestation. Moreover, termites have the potential to damage paint by peeling or chipping away at its coating.
Regular inspections and prompt treatment are key in avoiding major property damage; taking quick action when suspecting a termite problem will save costly repairs in the future.
Frass
Frass is the term used to describe termite droppings or feces that look like small wood-colored pellets and are commonly found near termite entry points. If you spot frass in your home, it could indicate termite activity.
But since frass can also be mistaken for sawdust or other debris, having a professional inspection is essential to confirm an infestation. These type of termites can be hazardous if inhaled so wearing protective gear while taking out the pests will solve nothing; professional treatment is necessary for complete eradication.
The Bottom Line
With that being said: Getting rid of frass alone won’t solve your problems; professional treatment must take place to eradicate these pests once and for all.
Termite infestations can do irreparable harm to your home if left undetected. Early detection is key for minimizing the extent of destruction.
If you observe any of these warning signs, contact a pest control expert immediately. A certified professional will assess the situation and offer you an effective solution.
