Termites are a common and costly insect that can destroy almost anything made of wood.
They can be a difficult pest to deal with as you may not notice them right away. They get into the woodwork of your home and then build a colony. This can lead to an infestation that takes time to realize and fix.
One of the first things to look for is the different signs that you have a termite infestation. If you see certain things on your property, such as discarded wings, sometimes called shed wings, then you may have termites.
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1. Stuck Windows or Doors
Termites are attracted to the moist, damp wood that frames the door or window, so it’s not uncommon for them to chew through the frame and make it harder to open and close it. If you find that you have to push particularly hard to get the window or door to open, it could be an indication that termites are to blame.
2. Damage Under Paint or Wallpaper
One of the key signs of termites is damage to paint or wallpaper. In a few cases, an inspector will notice sawdust or mini piles of dry mud that appear like a wall rash which directly points to termite presence. Another sign’s texture of the paint or wallpaper will become soft and bloom off like a biscuit.
Clues to the presence of termites can also be found in the fact that ceilings and walls noticeably weaken or if wood becomes hollow from consumption.
3. Termite Swarmers
A termite swarm might be visible inside or around your home in early spring. Discarded wings near windows and doors or near sources of light that look like fish scales can also indicate termites in your home. You may also find damaged wood in your home, which is often a sign of termite activity.
4. Mud Tubes
Mud tubes often referred to as “termite tubes” are the most obvious sign of a termite infestation. These tubes can range from 1/4 to 1/2 inch in width. These are built by termites for protection, allowing them to travel quickly and easily from their nest to a food source, as well as providing moisture. These tubes are usually found along walls, floors, and sometimes ceilings or other hidden places.
5. Termite Droppings
Termite droppings, known as frass, may look like small specks or pellets of sawdust and are typically found in and around the property. Frass may be found near wall voids or in the attic or crawlspace.
Frass may also show up in the corners of windows and doors. If any of these signs are present, it is important to take action and seek professional pest control near me for assistance.
Look Out for These Signs and Prevent a Termite Infestation Now
Termites can be a daunting problem to tackle, but recognizing the signs early will help you keep them from doing severe damage to your property. If you suspect you have a termite infestation, contact a professional immediately to discuss your options. Contact a professional pest control near you today!
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