Termites are known as “silent building destroyers” thanks to their super ability to chew through wood, flooring, and even wallpaper without making any noise. Every year, these pesky creatures cause an estimated $5 billion to $10 billion in various property damage cases in the United States. Unfortunately, most insurance plans don’t cover the damage caused by termites.
So, wouldn’t it be extremely depressing to find out you have a termite infestation? Therefore, early detection is key to preventing extensive damage to your property. But how do you know if you have termites in your home? Today, we’ll be discussing the early signs of termite infestation that you should never ignore.
Mud Tubes
Have you noticed narrow tubes made of mud snaking along your walls or foundation? These are a telltale sign of termite activity. Termites build these mud tubes to provide moisture and protection as they easily crawl and travel between their colony and food source. The presence of mud tubes indicates an established termite population nearby, so it’s crucial to take action promptly.
Discarded Wings
One of the early signs of a termite infestation that you should never ignore is finding discarded wings around your home. These delicate wings are often left behind by swarmers, which are reproductive termites looking to establish new colonies. Termite swarmers are typically attracted to light and can be found near windows or doors. If you notice discarded wings in these areas, it could indicate a nearby termite colony. These discarded wings may look like tiny fish scales scattered on the floor or window sills. While they may seem insignificant at first glance, they are actually a clear indication that termites are present in your home.
Hollow Wood
Have you noticed hollow-sounding wood in your home? It could be a sign of a termite infestation lurking beneath the surface. When termites feast on the wood inside your walls or furniture, they leave it hollowed out and weakened. This can often compromise the overall structural integrity of your home over time. If you tap on an area of suspected termite damage and it sounds empty or hollow, it’s essential to take action immediately. Ignoring this warning sign could lead to costly repairs down the road. Termites work silently and swiftly, so addressing the issue promptly is a must to prevent further damage.
Frass (Termite Droppings)
One of the early signs of a potential termite infestation that homeowners should never ignore is the presence of frass, also known as termite droppings. These tiny pellets often resemble sawdust or coffee grounds and are often found near areas where termites are actively feeding. Termites usually produce frass as they tunnel through wood to create their nests, leaving behind these telltale droppings as evidence of their presence. If you come across what looks like piles of tiny wood-colored pellets in your home, it could be a sign that termites are nearby.
Blistered or Bubbling Paint
Have you noticed blistered or bubbling paint on your walls or wooden surfaces? While it might seem like just a minor cosmetic issue, it could actually be a sign of termite infestation lurking beneath the surface. Termites create moisture when they feed on wood, causing the paint to bubble or blister as the wood underneath begins to warp and distort. This can be a subtle indicator that termites are actively feeding within your property. If left unaddressed, termite damage can lead to costly repairs and structural issues. It’s essential to address any signs of termite activity promptly before the situation escalates.
So, have you checked your home? If you notice any of these early signs of termite infestation in your home, it’s crucial not to ignore them. Reach out to your trustworthy local professional termite exterminator as soon as you suspect an infestation. They have the expertise and tools needed to effectively eliminate termites from your property and protect your home from future attacks.…
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