Unlike most other pests, termites can do extensive and costly damage to your home undetected.
Termites can destroy a home in as little as two years. But the worst part is that most homeowners don’t even know about it until it’s too late.
With that in mind, today, we’re going to discuss the top signs of termites in your home to be on the lookout for.
So whether you live in the US, are considering selling your home, or even renting out your home, you’ll want to keep reading.
1. Mud Tube on Walls
Termites create mud tubes to travel in and protect themselves from the elements. Mud tubes are constructed from mud and particles of wood, and they are approximately the same diameter as a pencil.
The tubes are usually found on the external walls of a home and can sometimes stretch up to several feet, forming a network. It is usually a sign that termites have already started to silently damage the wood in and around the structure.
Homeowners need to keep an eye out for mud tubes in their walls and take immediate action if they find any. These small, mud-like tubes can be found along walls and connected to the ground, where termites can access the home.
If these mud tubes are discovered, it is important to find a pest inspector immediately, as the termite population can grow rapidly and cause major and costly damage to a structure in a short amount of time.
2. Swarms of Winged Insects
These swarms are related to their nest to create a new colony. You may find them near windows, lights, or in the vicinity of wooden structures. Termites swarm outside during late spring, any time between spring and summer, though the exact timing may depend on the species and location.
They are usually light to dark brown and have two pairs of wings of equal size that are often shed after mating. If you see swarms of winged insects around your home or flying near lights or windows, it is important to take action as they are often signs of developing or existing termite problems in your home.
This may be seen near windows and other openings in your home. These are reproductives looking for new places to establish a nesting ground. Their swarms usually indicate that an existing colony is nearby.
These secluded swarms also open up a window of opportunity to identify and address the problem before it becomes a bigger issue. Also watch for signs like frass (wooden dust) coming from holes in wood, hollowed or decayed wood.
3. Cracked or Bubbling Paint
Termites can cause serious damage to your home, not just to the structural components, but can also feast upon painted surfaces. Termites will often cause bubbling or cracking to appear by eating away at the base of the paint.
It weakens it so that it becomes damaged. The damage makes it easy for termites to gain access to the timber underneath, and as the wood is eaten away, you will see the paint start to peel off.
It is important to check for and deal with any termite activity as soon as possible and to keep an eye out for these distinctive bubbling and cracking signs. If you look closely, you may even be able to spot the termites themselves.
4. Hearing Clicking or Buzzing Sound
Noise coming from inside the walls of your home is often an indicator of termite activity. If you hear clicking, buzzing, or rustling noises coming from the walls, it is likely a sign you have termites.
The noise may sound like static or a faint ticking that increases or decreases with movement or temperature changes. In some cases, the sound is louder and can be compared to a small set of drums.
The clicking or buzzing noise is made by termites rubbing their body against hard surfaces within your home. This high-pitched rub comes from either the queen termite, soldiers, or workers as they work their way through walls, flooring, and furniture.
It is important to get a professional to inspect the area and confirm if it is indeed a termite infestation before any action is taken.
5. Plies Wings Which Resembles Fish Scales
Warning signs of termites invading your home may include plies wings that resemble fish scales and other small debris near infested areas. This debris is termite reproductive caste. If this is visible it is an indication of a current infestation.
The wings may carpet windowsills, countertops, and window frames, as well as land on light fixtures, tables, and other surfaces. In cases of a long-standing infestation, plies wings may accumulate in significant amounts. Examine the wings closely, they will be translucent and can easily be identified by their iconic fish-scaled appearance.
6. Dark Spots on Wood Furniture
These dark spots are often caused by termites eating away at the wood, leaving behind nothing but a discolored and pitted surface. If you stand close enough to a termite-affected wood surface you may hear a faint crackling sound indicating significant damage to the wood.
Other warning signs to look out for are door or window frames that appear to be sagging or damaged or have soft spots on your floors or walls. You may also find thin trails of sawdust, which can indicate the presence of termites.
It is important to act quickly whenever you notice these signs of termite activity, as these pests can cause severe structural damage to your home.
Learn the Warning Signs of Termites in Your Home Starting Today
Termite infestations can cause major damage to your home if left untreated. It is important to pay attention to warning signs of termites, such as cracked paint, tiny holes in drywall, and the presence of a subterranean termite swarm.
Take action and contact a termite control expert if you suspect you may have a termite infestation in your home.
