Termites, although tiny, are incredibly destructive and can cause damage to the wooden components of your home. Termites feed on cellulose and may destroy furniture, sheetrock, trim work, and wooden support structures in your home. It’s helpful to recognize signs of termites in your home so you can detect an issue early.
How to Identify Signs of Termites
Termites can cause a lot of damage before you know they’re a problem. They are tough to notice because they tunnel into the wood and destroy it unseen from the inside. Understanding the common signs of termites will help you protect your property from costly repairs.
Damaged Wood
If you suspect termites, check around your home for damaged wood. You might notice small holes in window sills, baseboard trim, or decking boards. Tapping on wood will produce a hollow sound. Floors may feel springy or soft if the flooring materials or the floor joists have sustained damage.
Mud Tubes are Signs of Termites
Mud tubes are an indication of a subterranean termite infestation in your home. The insects build tubes to use as a path from their home to a food source. You might see mud tubes on your foundation or exterior walls. Termites may build these tubes on basement walls or even on trees around your property. Contact a pest control company if you notice mud tubes on or near your home.
Swarming Insects
On a warm day, you could see a swarm of winged insects on your property. When a termite colony matures, some insects leave the nest to start new colonies elsewhere. The winged termites are in search of a mate. If they find suitable conditions within your home, the termites will build a colony there. If you notice swarming insects, look for other signs of termites and call an exterminator.
Discarded Wings
Discarded wings are another visible sign of termite infestation. These wings get left behind as swarming insects settle into a new home. They shed their wings, as they are no longer needed. You might see piles of wings near your home’s foundation or around openings, like windows or the garage door.
Frass
Termite droppings, also called “frass,” are a sure sign of termites in your home. This substance is wood-colored and looks like small piles of sawdust found just outside of termite tunnels. As drywood termites move through wood, they clean out the tunnels, pushing their waste out of holes they create in the material.
Termite infestation leads to costly damages to your property. Know the signs of an infestation and call a pest control expert if you notice any indication of these insects. It’s helpful to occasionally schedule a termite inspection to keep your home safe and structurally sound.
Danny Inspections offers inspection services to customers in the Chicago area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.