10 Signs You Have a Termite Problem
Termites are one of the most destructive pests in the world. Each year, they cause billions of dollars in damage to homes and businesses. In many cases, termite damage is not covered by insurance. For this case, homeowners are usually forced to have cash at hand to cater for such damages. In fact, according to Consumer Affairs, a household owner with termite infestation spends approximately $3,000 to handle the damage. For this case, if you think you might have a termite problem, it's essential to act quickly. The sooner you identify and treat the problem, the minor damage the termites will cause. Here are 10 signs that you might have a termite problem:
1. Mud Tubes on the Exterior of Your Home
Mud tubes on the exterior of your home are a sign you have a termite problem. Termites build these tubes as they travel between their underground nest and the food they are eating on the surface. If you see mud tubes in your home, calling a pest extermination service is vital. They will be able to determine if the termites are active and causing damage, and they can put together a treatment plan to get rid of the pests.
2. Swarmers or Discarded Wings Around Your Home
Another common sign that you have a termite problem is the presence of swarmers, or wings, around your home. If you see these, the termites are mature and ready to mate. Once they mate, they will start their colonies, which can quickly become a severe problem. Therefore, the moment you detect swarmers or wings around your home, it is vital to take action right away and call a professional. They will be able to assess the situation and help you get rid of the termites.
3. Cracks in Wood or Paint That Resemble Blisters
Termites can cause significant damage to your home, and if you start to see cracks in the paint or wood that resemble blisters, it's a sign that you have a termite problem. Termite damage is often difficult to detect until it's too late, so it's essential to be proactive and watch for these signs. Any cracks in your paint or wood should get you on your toes to seek a professional to inspect your home and provide quick and effective remedies.
4. Hollow Sounding Wood
When Tapped Insect infestations, such as termites, often result in strange noises coming from wooden surfaces. This is because the insects eat away at the wood, creating tunnels and chambers that make a hollow sound when tapped. The softer the wood, the more hollow it will sound. If you hear a strange noise coming from your wood surfaces, it could signify that you have a termite problem. If you are unsure, though, it would be best to consult with a professional who can confirm whether or not you have termites and offer advice on how to get rid of them.
5. Sagging Floors or Ceilings
As any homeowner knows, a saggy floor or ceiling indicates a bigger problem. And when it comes to termites, that couldn't be more true. You likely have a termite problem if you notice your floors or ceilings beginning to sag. Here's why: Termites consume wood, and when they're doing a lot of damage, the floors and ceilings can start to sag under their weight. So, if you notice a sudden change in the floor or ceiling level, it's a clear sign that you need to get a professional pest extermination service to help you take care of your termite problem. Don't wait until the problem gets worse.
6. Door or Window Frames That Are No Longer Level
Door or window frames that are no longer level are another common sign that you might gave a termite problem. There are a few different ways to tell if termites are causing your door or window frames to become unlevel. First, take a look at the wood itself. If you see any signs of damage, such as holes or cracks, termites likely are to blame. You may also notice piles of mud around the frames. If you see any of these signs, it's essential to call a professional to get rid of the insects.
7. Unexplained Piles of Sawdust Near Wood Structures
Piles of sawdust near wood structures are another common sign that you have a termite problem. The piles are usually found near windows, doors, or other areas where termites have been feeding on the wood. Termites typically create these piles as they travel back and forth from their nests to their food source. If you see these piles near your home, it is essential to call a professional immediately to have your home treated. Untreated termites can cause severe damage to your home.
8. Damaged or Missing Roof Tiles
Damaged or missing roof tiles signify you may have a termite problem. Termites like to eat and damage wood, so they may start by eating the roof tiles. If you notice any damage or missing tiles on your roof, investigate further to see if you have a termite problem. If you do, be sure to get professional help to get rid of the termites.
9. Dead Insects in Or Around Your Home
If you find dead insects inside your home, it could signify a termite infestation. Termites consume wood so that you may find them tunneling through wooden furniture, walls, or flooring. You may also see them crawling on the ground or flying near lights. On the other hand, if you find dead insects outside your home, it could signify that termites are present in the yard. Termites are attracted to moisture; for this case, they may be located near water sources, such as gutters, downspouts, and sprinkler heads. You may also see them around woodpiles or in mulch. Therefore, when you find dead insects in or around your home, it is essential to contact a pest control professional to have the area inspected for termites. A professional can determine if there is an infestation and recommend the best course of treatment.
10. Strange Noises Coming from Walls or Floors
There can be numerous strange noises coming from walls or floors in a home, and while some of them could be harmless, others are not. If you're wondering if one of these strange noises could signify that you have a termite problem, then continue reading. The following are some of the most common odd noises that people hear in their homes and could be indicative of a termite problem:
- A persistent knocking noise that seems to be coming from the walls or floors.
- The sound of something scurrying or crawling around, especially at night.
- A high-pitched whine or buzzing noise. The sound of wood cracking or splitting.
If you think you might have a termite problem, don't wait until it is too late. Don't let these pests damage your home - act now! Contact us today to get quality and professional pest extermination service. We will be able to confirm whether or not you have a termite problem and provide the necessary treatment.
