The presence of winged termites inside a home almost always indicates an infestation warranting treatment. Termite swarmers are attracted to light and often will be seen around windows, doors and light fixtures.
They can be differentiated from winged ants by their straight antennae, uniform waist, and wings of equal size. Ants have elbowed antennae, constricted waists and forewings that are longer than the hind wings. Swarmers emerging from tree stumps, woodpiles, railroad ties and other outdoor locations are not necessarily cause for concern, and do not necessarily mean that the structure, itself, is infested.
Another indicator of a termite problem is pencil-wide mud foraging tubes extending over foundation walls, support piers, sill plates, floor joists, headers and subfloors. Termites construct these mud “shelter” tubes as they travel between their underground colonies and the structure. Termite damaged wood is usually hollowed out along the grain, with bits of dried mud or soil lining the feeding galleries. Wood damaged by moisture or other types of insects (e.g., carpenter ants) will not have this appearance. There will often be no sign of the termites themselves — small, creamy-white insects with an “ant-like” appearance. An infestation can go undetected for years, hidden behind drywall, paneling, floor coverings, insulation, and other obstructions.
Termite feeding, and the resultant damage, can even progress undetected in wood that is exposed, because the outer surface is usually left intact. Confirmation of infestation often requires the keen eye of an experienced termite inspector. However, even the most experienced termite inspector can overlook damage which is hidden.