5 Signs You Have a Termite Infestation in Your Home

The unlikeliest of unwanted pests to have to contend with as a homeowner is probably termites. Working behind the scenes, tiny insects, termites, can do an astonishing amount of structural harm before you even realise they exist. Catching it in the early stages will save you repairing thousands of dollars and safeguarding the integrity of your home. Five indications that termites have already moved in and are making themselves comfortable in your home are listed below.

1. Echoing Wood

The empty sound when one taps wood around the house indicates termite damage. Termites eat from within outward, therefore even seemingly fine pieces may have been badly weakened. Test doubtful areas lightly using a tool or screwdriver. If the wood is soft and breaks with small pressure, they have already begun feeding.

2. Shed Wings

A visible small pile of shed wings in your house can be a sign of termites. The wings are from “swarmers,” reproductive termites that leave their colony to establish new ones. The termites shed their wings after mating. Check windowsills, doors, or light fixtures—typical places where swarmers enter. Seeing what look like thin, transparent wings in these locations means that termites have likely infested your house. 

3. Mud Tunnels

Since termites require water to live, they construct mud tubes to safely move from their nest to food. These pencil-diameter tubes are typically found on walls, foundations, or crawl spaces. Mud tunnels safeguard termites from predators and maintain them in a moist state. When you spot these thin, delicate tunnels in the outer or inner walls of your home, open one to check if there are live termites. The existence of living termites is a confirmation of an infestation. 

4. Frass Accumulation

Frass or termite waste is another indicator of a potential invasion of your home. Drywood termites specifically produce little clumps of frass resembling sawdust or coffee grounds. The faeces usually appear near openings or wood material they have invaded. Even if some homeowners mix frass up with harmless dust, it’s a sure sign of termite activity.

5. Warping Door and Window Frames

Doors or windows at your home are becoming difficult to open? It might be more than a mere effect of weathering.

Termites often colonize the door and window wood frames, weakening their structure. The infestation warps, swells, or displaces the frames, making them difficult to operate. If this problem continues to persist, particularly in a particular area of the house, then calling in a professional termite inspector is warranted. 

Protect Your Home from Termites 

Ignoring the threat of termites is no threat that any homeowner would want to take. From creaky wood to shed wings, these indirect indicators might be the warning sign of an emerging issue. If you believe that your house has an infestation of termites, don’t wait—call a pest control professional such as Control Pest Management right away to take a look at the problem and prevent further damage. Being mindful of your house’s health will save you time, money, and stress. Watch for these signs and respond to keep your house healthy and intact.