As small as they are, it’s easy to think that termites won’t cause much damage. Unfortunately, that’s far from the truth. Termites are one of the most destructive pests that can find their way to your property.
They can also be difficult to spot initially. You may not notice they’re there until it’s too late. If you live in an area where termites in your property are a possibility, you’ll need to keep these signs at the forefront of your mind.
Mud Lines
If you have subterranean termites, you may notice mud lines on the exterior of your home. Termites tend to create these shelter tunnels during the night so your home may be clear one day and have mud lines the next. They’re not always in obvious places so keep your eyes out around the whole of your property.
Winged Bugs
Termites that invade homes are often winged. They have small white wings and although they can be hard to see, it won’t be hard to see winged bugs flying around your home. This isn’t a sign that any homeowner should hope for.
It usually means that you have an infestation and will need to contact pest control as quickly as possible. If the termites aren’t hiding anymore, it’s likely you’re not seeing the whole problem.
Frass
Frass is a type of material produced by the excrement of drywood termites. You’re likely to notice it on your windows or doors so it’s worth checking if you ever have a suspicion you may have termites. It’s a telltale sign that can save your home from a lot of damage.
As soon as you spot this material, you can take quick action. Unfortunately, subterranean termites don’t leave the same clues behind which is why they often end up causing much more damage than their tamer counterparts.
Hardwood Holes
Most people look for this sign first. Termites are well known for leaving tiny holes in hardwood. You may find these holes anywhere in your home. Because termites are so attracted to hardwood, you may want to look at more ways to incorporate concrete in your home.
They’re usually found in hardwood flooring, hardwood walls or even skirting boards near doors and windows. They’re not easy to spot so if you want to check your home for termites, use a torch and get close to the wood.
White Ants
There are certain termites that look like white ants. They are called worker termites and are usually found under rocks or wood boards. You may also find them if you cut into a tree stump.
Don’t be fooled into thinking these are actually ants. They are white termites and they can do the same damage to your property as other kinds of termites. If you suspect termites on your property, it’s worth checking underneath any large objects that have been in the same place for a significant amount of time.
Clicking
It’s possible to hear termites when they’re in your home. Although it’s rare, you may be able to hear a clicking or rustling noise in the walls. When you walk close to termite tunnels, termites will send a warning signal to each other by banging their heads against the tunnel walls.
Additionally, you may hear a hollow sound in your walls if you tap on them. Walls that should be solid are made hollow by termites and the sound is distinctive. It’s worth checking your home by tapping all the wood throughout your property to see what you hear.
Signs of Damage
Termites can cause all sorts of damage when they’re left to their own devices. Because it’s notoriously difficult to spot them, they can ruin everything from walls, beams, furniture, and more. If the first sign you spot is damage to your property, you may already have a large infestation in your home.
If you can’t track the termites down, it’s time to call in pest control to get rid of the problem once and for all.
Have I Got Termites In My Home?
Termites are very good at being discreet and hiding from any potential threats. It’s unlikely that you’ll spot termites before they become a problem so it’s vital that they are exterminated as soon as they’re visible. Even if you only notice a single termite, it’s highly likely there are more.
The only way to know for sure is to have your property inspected by a professional and preventative measures put in place for the future. If you’ve found this article helpful, take a look at the rest.
