Top 5 Signs You Might Have a Termite Infestation
If you’re a homeowner, termites might be one of your worst fears – and for good reason. These tiny pests can cause serious, often hidden damage to your home before you even know they’re there. Fortunately, Golds Termite and Pest Control is here to help you spot the signs early so you can take action before any major issues arise. Here are the top 5 signs that termites might have already settled into your walls or floorboards.
Top 5 Signs of a Termite Infestation
1. Mud Tubes on Walls or Foundation
Mud tubes are one of the most obvious signs of termites. These pencil-sized tunnels are created by termites as they travel between their nest and their food source – your home! You’ll usually find these tubes on walls, foundations, or crawl spaces. If you see mud tubes, it’s a good idea to break one open. If it’s active, you may see live termites inside. Either way, mud tubes mean it’s time to call in a professional.
2. Hollow-Sounding Wood
Termites eat wood from the inside out, so sometimes the wood in your home can look perfectly normal on the outside while being hollow on the inside. An easy way to check is by tapping on wooden surfaces around your home, especially areas near the ground. If it sounds hollow or you notice a soft spot, termites might be to blame. Catching hollow wood early can save you from more extensive damage later.
3. Droppings or “Frass”
Drywood termites leave behind small, pellet-like droppings called “frass.” These tiny piles can look like sawdust or small wood pellets and are usually found near windowsills, floors, or other areas where termites have been feeding. Finding frass is a sure sign that termites are nearby and actively feeding, so don’t ignore it if you spot it.
4. Swarmers or Discarded Wings
When termites are ready to start a new colony, they produce “swarmers,” or winged termites, that fly out to find a new home. If you see these swarmers around your house or near windows, it’s a strong indication of a termite presence. Sometimes, you might also find discarded wings on window sills or floors, which are left behind after swarmers shed their wings. These are big red flags that shouldn’t be ignored.
5. Paint Bubbles or Uneven Wall Surfaces
Termites can cause damage that makes paint bubble or create unusual spots on your walls. This happens because termites bring moisture into the wood as they eat, which can cause paint to lift or bubble. If you notice your paint looking strange and can’t explain it with water leaks or humidity, termites might be tunnelling right behind the surface.
What to Do if You Spot These Signs
If any of these signs sound familiar, don’t panic – but do act quickly. The sooner you address a termite problem, the easier it will be to control the damage. A professional termite inspection can confirm the issue and lay out a plan to protect your home.
Termites might be sneaky, but keeping an eye out for these warning signs can help you stay one step ahead. Catching them early makes a world of difference in protecting your home, your peace of mind, and your wallet.
Take Action with Golds Termite and Pest Control Townsville
Golds Termite and Pest Control can provide a thorough inspection and craft a plan to eliminate termites before they cause further damage. Contact us today to keep your home safe and termite-free!