Termites are one of the most wildly spreading and destructive pests that hold the potential to destroy your property within weeks. The worst part about these pests is that you would probably find the destruction before you realize that the area is infested with termites. To understand the signs of termite infestation, it is essential to know how they look like and where are the possible places you may find them.
Termites look similar to ants, with specific minute differences like the color and the body shape. There are majorly four types of termites, namely – Dampwood Termites, Drywood Termites, Formosan Termites, and Subterranean Termites. All of the categories are known to devour wood and wooden furniture within minutes. If you see any single sign, it is essential for you to get rid of termites entirely before they spread and damage more. Below mentioned are a few signs that would suggest termite infestation.
Different Signs Of Termite Infestation
Muddy Tubes
The Subterranean Termites build their colonies underground. If you notice a thin pencil-sized muddy tube in and around your house, on the ground that connects to your home or on a tree shed, it might be a potential sign of termite infestation. These termites survive in humid environments; thus they build a tunnel that blocks the sun and dry air, keeping them comfortable enough to thrive.
Clicking Sounds
Termites make a slow clicking sound that may come from behind the walls, under your furniture or from the wooden window frames. The worker termites make this sound when they feed on the wood. You have to pay attention to the noise as they are deficient. Moreover, the soldier termites also shake their bodies or bang their heads against the wood to signal danger to the other termites in the colony.
Discarded Wings
The reproductive termites, also known as ‘Swarmers’ are the termites that develop wings. These termites get out of the existing settlement looking for new places to mate, reproduce and set a new colony. Once they find an appropriate space, they shed their wings and settle down. Thus, you will discover discarded wings of these termites usually near doors, windowsills, floors, etc. If you notice these wings, you need to look out for the new colony of termites and eradicate them as soon as possible.
Damaged Timber
As the termites feed on the wood, they will leave back a hollow space that will also make an empty noise when knocked. If you get a thin or hollow sound when you tap on the wall, the wall may be infested with termites. You will also notice blistering pieces of wood.
Flying Termites
Keep your eyes open for the swarmers. The swarmers, as mentioned above, are the ones that fly away from the existing colony to reproduce and form a new colony. This group of termites would be visible twice a year, during the falls and the spring when the weather condition is pleasant. You will also notice them during the morning and afternoon when there is natural sunlight.
Termite Droppings
Once the drywood termites feed on the wood, they excrete grainy and woody fecal molds. These excretions look like sawdust and indicate the presence of termites.
Ill-Fit Doors And Windows
Apart from damp weather conditions playing tricks with your wooden doors and windows, the termite infestation may also lead to the same situation. While feeding on the wood, the termites would produce moisture in the frames which makes them tight or difficult to open. Therefore, stiff windows and doors are another major sign of termite infestation in your home.
Conclusion
If you notice any of the above signs, you need to get in touch with professional pest control. Eradicating termites is very important if you do not wish to have your property damaged. Termites spread very fast and can create a huge loss if not treated completely. Thus, knowing the signs of termites will help you understand what step needs to be taken to get rid of them entirely.