Signs of Termites
Termite infestation in your residence or property can be identified by observing their signs. Below are some of them.
- Mud Tubes: Certain termites often build mud tubes, which are thin tunnels made of soil, wood particles, and termite saliva. These tubes provide protection as they travel between their nest and a food source.
- Wood Damage: Termites feed on wood from the inside out, so wood that sounds hollow when tapped on or appears to be damaged or weakened can be a sign of termite activity.
- Discarded Wings: Swarmers, or winged reproductive termites, may emerge from mature colonies to establish new colonies. After they swarm, they shed their wings, leaving behind discarded wings near windowsills, doors, or other light sources.
- Termite Droppings (Frass): Drywood termites produce tiny pellets of wood-colored or dark-colored fecal matter, known as frass. You might find these pellets near termite entry points or in piles beneath infested wood.
- Blowholes in Wood: Drywood termites create small holes in wood surfaces to push out their fecal matter. These holes are often called “kick-out holes” or “exit holes.”
- Tunnels in Wood: If you break open infested wood, you may find tunnels or galleries created by termites. These tunnels are where the termites travel and feed.
- Swarmers: As mentioned earlier, winged reproductive termites may swarm, particularly during warmer months. If you see swarms of flying insects, especially indoors, it could indicate a termite infestation.
- Sagging Floors or Ceilings: Severe termite damage can weaken structural components of a building, leading to sagging floors or ceilings.
- Stuck Windows or Doors: Termites can cause doors or windows to become difficult to open or close due to their feeding activity on wooden frames.
- Presence of Moisture: Dampwood termites are attracted to moist wood. Therefore, any signs of excessive moisture or water damage, such as mold or mildew, could attract these termites.
