The Top Signs of a Termite Infestation
Termites are tiny insects that can cause big problems. These pests feast on wood 24/7, and they can quickly do extensive damage to your home. If you think you may have a termite problem, it’s important to act fast. Here are the top signs of a termite infestation.
- Mud tubes on the exterior of your home: Termites build mud tubes as a way to travel from their nests to their food source—your home! These tubes are about the diameter of a pencil and are usually found on the foundation or walls of your home. If you see mud tubes, it’s a sure sign that you have termites.
- Swarms of winged insects: Every spring, winged male and female termites leave their nests in search of mates. If you see swarms of these insects around your home, there is likely a nest nearby.
- Cracks in your walls or floors: As termites eat away at the wood in your home, they create small cracks and tunnels. These cracks usually start small but can become larger over time. If you notice any cracks in your walls or floors, it could be a sign of termites.
- Hollow-sounding wood: Tap on the wood surfaces in your home with your knuckle or a screwdriver—if it sounds hollow, there’s a good chance that termites have eaten away the inside of the wood, leaving only a thin layer on the surface.
- Paint that is bubbling or peeling: If the paint on your walls or ceiling is bubbling or peeling, it could be caused by moisture from termite activity. When termites eat wood, they release moisture into the air, which can cause paint to peel or bubble away from the surface of the wall.
If you see any of these signs around your home, don’t hesitate to call a professional for help. The sooner you catch a termite problem, the less damage they will be able to do to your home!
Termites are sneaky pests that can do a lot of damage to your home if left unchecked. If you think you may have a problem with these pests, look for mud tubes on the exterior of your home, swarms of winged insects around your property, cracks in your walls or floors, hollow-sounding wood, and paint that is bubbling or peeling away from surfaces. If you see any of these signs, call a professional for help right away!