6 Telltale Signs of a Termite Infestation

Termites house their colonies within the wood on which they feed. While they eat the wood, these creatures burrow mazes of tunnels and chambers within the walls and furniture. They also leave small piles of feces that resemble pellets where they eat or nest. Termites cause floors, walls and ceilings to sag and they leave behind areas that looked like they were damaged by water. It’s why it is important to call pest control if you see or feel that the damage in your house was caused by termites. Here are 6 signs that there is definitely a termite colony residing in your house:

• There is mud-like material that lines walls in an irregular pattern. This happens because termites excavate the wood, leaving a thin layer. And when the layer is broken, they will cover the holes with mud-like material, which is a mixture of soil, feces and saliva.
• You may also notice the appearance of a swarm, which people sometimes call “flying ants”, especially near light sources. This can indicate that a nest is near. This swarm often consists of adult males and females that leave their current nest to establish a new colony. Swarming usually occurs when a colony reaches a certain size and is most common when the weather is warm.
• The swarming termites usually emerge during the day, more frequently on days after the rain. They are usually found outdoors near tree stumps, railroad ties or anywhere with a nearby light source. If you find a swarm inside your home, then that means you have an infestation within your house.
• When inspecting your home, you may find mud tunnels. These are often made by subterranean termites, who build these mud tubes, which are roughly the size of a pencil. These tunnels often contain broken mud particles combined with fecal materials. Absence of termites in the tunnels doesn’t indicate they are gone for good so be careful. You can break open these tubes to determine if the termites are still active inside. Termites also rebuild damaged or old tubes since they are usually dry and crumble easily.
• You may also find piles of wings on the ground or on the floor, which indicate that the swarming termites finally entered the next phase of their development.
• You’ll also find your paint job buckling and there are tiny holes on the wood. The wood may also appear crushed at structural bearing points. Damaged wood resonates with a dull thud when tapped with a hammer. If you pick and probe the surface a piece of wood that you suspect is infected by termites, you will be able to find tunnels running parallel to the wood’s grain.

If you find termites in your house, that does not mean you have an immediate emergency. The rate of the damage occurs relatively slowly. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be cautious. Regularly check for pests and termites around where you are to ensure a pest free abode.