Winged termites and ants look somewhat similar, but can be distinguished by certain physical features . If you're not sure whether you have termites or ants, show them to a pest control professional or bring some specimens to your county Cooperative Extension Service Center for identification. Termites do not travel out in the open the way ants to. Tubes may also hang from the floor system or may be found protruding from cracks between boards and beams or through holes termites have chewed through sheetrock. You can break open tubes to determine if termites are still active inside.
Termites often rebuild damaged tubes, another indication of continued activity.
The source of such infestations is often difficult to locate, but may signify a serious moisture problem. A thorough inspection may require removal of siding or interior wallboards. These tubes will contain materials other than soil, e.g., material from sheetrock walls. We tend to think of termites as mostly damaging lumber. While foraging and feeding, they may damage non-cellulosic materials, such as plastic and styrofoam.