Termites, often referred to as “silent destroyers,” can cause extensive damage to your home before you even realize they’re there. These pests feed on wood, and once they establish a colony, they can compromise the structural integrity of a building. Early detection is crucial to preventing serious damage. In this blog post, the experts from Knock ‘Em Out Pest Control will explore some key signs to watch out for that may indicate a termite infestation in your home.
Termite Mud Tubes
One of the most telltale signs of a termite infestation is the presence of mud tubes. Termites build these pencil-sized tunnels as protective passageways between their colony and food sources. Typically found on walls, foundations, and crawl spaces, mud tubes are made of soil, wood, and termite saliva. If you spot these tubes, break a section open. If it’s active, you may see live termites inside.
Discarded Termite Swarmer Wings
Termites swarm in the spring or summer when they leave their nests to start new colonies. After swarming, they shed their wings, leaving behind piles of discarded wings near windowsills, doors, or other entry points. These wings are often one of the first signs homeowners notice.
Hollow or Damaged Wood
Termites eat wood from the inside out, leaving a thin veneer of timber or paint intact. Tap on wooden structures in your home and listen for a hollow sound. If wood breaks or crumbles easily when probed with a screwdriver, it’s a strong indication of termite activity.
Blistered or Bubbling Paint
When termites are present, they create moisture inside the wood, which can cause paint to bubble or blister. This sign is often mistaken for water damage, but it can also be an indicator of a termite infestation.
Frass (Termite Droppings)
Drywood termites, unlike their subterranean counterparts, do not use their droppings to build tunnels. Instead, they push their droppings out of small holes near the entry point to their nest. These droppings, known as frass, look like tiny pellets or sawdust and often accumulate in piles.
Swarming Termites
Swarming termites are reproductive termites that leave their colony to establish new ones. If you see a swarm of what looks like flying ants inside or outside your home, it’s a strong indication of an active termite colony nearby.
Tight-Fitting Doors & Hard-to-Open Windows
As termites eat through wood, they produce moisture, causing the wood to swell and warp. This can lead to doors and windows becoming difficult to open or close properly. If you notice this problem, it’s worth investigating further.
Clicking Noises
Soldier termites bang their heads against the walls of tunnels or shake their bodies to signal danger to the colony. This can produce faint clicking or rustling noises inside your walls, especially at night when the house is quiet.
Termite Inspections & Control in Lansing, Michigan
Early detection and treatment can save you from costly repairs and extensive damage. Regular inspections and being vigilant about the signs of termites are key to keeping your home safe from these destructive pests. By recognizing these signs and acting promptly, you can protect your home from significant structural damage. Stay vigilant and contact the professionals at Knock ‘Em Out Pest Control if you suspect an infestation to ensure your home remains termite-free. Knock ‘Em Out Pest Control provide in depth inspections with their knowledge and tools to detect even the smallest sign. Call Knock ‘Em Out Pest Control today!
