How do you know if you have termites? Unfortunately, they are quite secretive. And while it's always best to have an inspection done by a termite professional, termites will occasionally leave clues. If you do investigate, here's what to look for:
TERMITES - WHAT ARE THE SIGNS?
Swarming
Typically, termites swarm in warm conditions after a rain shower. The event lasts just a few minutes, so chances are better that you'll see the wings they leave behind. Look for shed wings around window sills, doors, heating vents, even bathtubs and sinks. Whether you see the swarm itself or the aftermath, it's best to call a professional immediately.
Mud Tubes
Foraging worker termites construct small, meandering tubes, about the diameter of a pencil (though they can become wider), out of moist soil. The tubes can be free-standing or connected to the structural surfaces of your house, and they serve as highways from the soil to a food source. Mud tubes can disappear into masonry cracks and can also be found around doors and window frames or along siding.
Damaged Wood
Termites eat wood from the inside out, so damaged wood is hard to find. Break open hollow-sounding wall studs, baseboards and floors, and look for a honeycomb pattern. Termites feed along the grain on the softer spring growth, and their excavations often are packed with soil. Worst-case scenario: bulging walls, caused by the above-ground nests of Formosan termites. They are an especially robust species, and can cause this alarming sight.
Live Insects
When building or remodeling in your home, keep an eye out for soft-bodied, light-colored insects about the size of a grain of rice. Termites will move away quickly when exposed to light.
You might not see any termites. You might not see any damage. But you can't afford the costly mistake of assuming that you are termite-free.
Any of these signs indicates that you've got termites. But even if you don't find any clues, it's smart to consider protecting your biggest investment with the Sentricon® System. Especially if your home is in a threat zone.
Call a Sentricon System Authorized Operator, a professional who knows exactly where to look and is familiar with all of the signs of termite infestation. Remember, termites are excellent at hide-and-seek. Without help, you can do a great job of seeking and still lose the game.
