If you see a termite in your house, it's a sign that there might be a colony nearby. Termites can cause significant damage to building structures, so it's crucial to take action as soon as possible. Here are some signs of termite infestations to look out for:
Termite swarmers: If you notice termite swarmers, either alive or dead, inside your house, it's a clear sign of an infestation. Swarmers are flying termites that have branched off from their colony to find mates and start new colonies.
Mud shelter tubes: Subterranean termites build mud shelter tubes to travel from their colony to their food source. These tubes are often found on the exterior of buildings, near the foundation, or in crawl spaces.
Hollowed or damaged wood: Termites eat wood from the inside out, leaving behind long grooves or a honeycomb pattern. If you tap on a wall and it sounds hollow, it could be a sign of termite damage.
Discarded termite wings: After swarming, termites twist off their wings because they no longer need them. If you find piles of discarded wings near closed windows, doors, or other home-access points, it's a sign of a termite infestation.
Mud tunnels: Termites build mud tunnels to travel from their colony to their food source. These tunnels are often found on the exterior of buildings, near the foundation, or in crawl spaces.
Frass: Drywood termites leave behind small piles of fecal pellets, which resemble sawdust or coffee grounds. If you notice these piles near windowsills or floors, it's a sign of a drywood termite infestation.
If you suspect a termite infestation, it's essential to contact a professional pest control service as soon as possible. Termites can cause significant damage to building structures, and the longer you wait to address the problem, the more extensive the damage will be. A professional pest control service can identify the type of termite infestation, locate the colony, and provide a treatment plan to eliminate the termites and prevent future infestations.
In the meantime, there are steps you can take to make your home less attractive to termites. These steps include removing moisture from around your home, sealing off entry points, and reducing exterior lighting. However, it's important to note that professional pest control services are often necessary to completely eliminate a termite infestation.