Signs of a Termite Infestation in Your Home
Even if you have not seen a single termite in your home, these little buggers might on the premises. Termites will damage your home’s structural foundation while remaining out of sight. It is a mistake to assume your home, busines or other building is termite-free simply because you cannot see them. Be proactive, remain hyper-aware of the indications that termites are present and you will have done your part to protect your most valuable investment – your home.
Termite Droppings
Every homeowner should know what termite droppings, also known as frass, look like. However, few homeowners venture deep into this subject matter as it is negative in nature. Termites leave droppings, especially in areas such as the tunnels they create and nest in. Termite droppings will eventually be pushed out of these diminutive spaces. If you spot little pellet-like mounds that look like tiny black markings or resemble a dark powder, you have termites in your home. Termite droppings are small to the point that they compare to the size of wood shavings. So don’t hesitate to break out the magnifying glass to confirm what you are looking at is termite droppings as opposed to sawdust.
Wings are Cause for Concern
If you find small wings that have broken off, it is an indication that termites are present. Though some parts of the south have flying cockroaches with small wings, the presence of such discarded wings are much more likely to indicate termites are on-site.
Termites shed their wings throughout the aging process. Every homeowner should be aware that termites gravitate toward the light. Look around your home’s windows, doors and other light-filled areas and you just might find a couple or several discarded termite wings.
Hollowed Wood
Termites eat through wood from the inside on out. Therefore, it is in your interest to tap on the wood in your home every now and then to gauge if it is hollow. If the tapping generates such a hollow sound, it is an indication of termite damage. Some termites also cause wood to erupt or even blister so be on the lookout for those signs of a termite infestation as well.
Paint That is Uneven or Bubbles
Have you noticed the paint in your home looks odd? Perhaps you spot bubbling or an unevenness in the paint. These are signs that moisture has accumulated to a destructive point. The presence of termites increases such buildup. It is also possible that there is water damage.
Mud Tubes
Termites that live below ground form mud tubes. These tubes help termites transition from soil to food sources. The sources of food are often found in homes like yours. Such narrow tunnels contain moisture that helps keep the termites dry. As noted above, the presence of moisture below paint is a common sign of a termite infestation. Take a close look around the foundation of your home for mud tubes and you just might find one or even several such tubes.
Listen Closely
Termites are noisy little critters. These pests create clicking sounds from the interior of walls when hitting their head against the wood or when shaking. If you hear such a noise, it is a clear sign your home has been invaded by destructive termites.
Contact Texas A-1 Pest Control
If you notice any of the termite signs listed above, reach out to us right away. You can contact our pest control experts by phone at (713) 464-5219 or by completing our contact form.
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