It may sound like a scene from a horror movie; clicking sounds within the walls, unidentifiable munching noises, insects swarming around light sources, etc. Yet the explanation behind all these is not ghosts, but termites. They are small and look harmless, but, if you see signs of termites within your property, you should be concerned.
It may not be possible to imagine how much damage they can do. Yet, termites can consume approximately 15 lbs of unprotected wood in a week. Here’s the thing though, you may not quite be aware of the damage, because sometimes it occurs on the inside of the wood. You’ll only be privy to the fact when the structure collapses.
Not only will they damage wood, but they will also eat your carpets, cellulose material, cloth, and paper. Scientists believe that the termite population could easily outweigh that of human beings. You need to get rid of them immediately you see any termite signs.
They may be sneaky little creatures, but our article below will show you check for termite infestation in your home.
Signs of Termites to Watch Out For
Termites are sneaky creatures, and you may sometimes need to call Sherlock Holmes to the scene. You’ll only feel their presence after they have caused substantial damage to the property. But there’re certain signs which will give you a heads-up on their presence within your property.
1. Blowholes in the Trees
Termites elude their enemies by cutting longitudinal slits on tree trunks. The slits provide an exit for them, but once the enemies leave, the worker termite will seal it. The tree will then form a callus around the ‘injury’ while in the healing process.
If you see these signs on your trees, it’ll be a good indication that you have a termite infestation.
2. Tubes of Mud
If you look around the foundation of your home, you may see tubes made of mud going from one place to another. These channels may be the size of a pencil, and the termites will use them from the nest to their feeding grounds. While sourcing for food, the tubes allow them to keep the temperature and humidity levels that they will find in the nest.
The tubes protect the termites by blocking out the drying effects of air.
3. Clicking Sounds
Unless Casper the Friendly Ghost has taken residence in your home, unexplained clicking in the walls could indicate the presence of termites. They make clicking sounds which will escalate to head-banging when there’s a disturbance in the colony. The banging may be the soldier termite’s way of warning the rest to be watchful.
They may not also have the best table manners, because they’re noisy eaters. So if you hear any munching sounds that you cannot quite explain, start looking out for termites.
4. Swarmers or Flying Termites
Alates or swarmers are the termites you may see flying around. You could consider this a kind of dating or mate finding scenario because males and females will leave the nest to form their colonies. If you leave the porch light on, you’ll see them flying around the bulbs.
Swarmers leave behind a lot of termite evidence because they shed their wings quite a bit. In the morning, you may find your porch covered with wings; an indication of a successful pairing up session.
5. Hollow Timber
Termites will eat from the inside out and will hollow out any timber. If you knock on an area with termite damage, the wood will sound hollow. Don’t be surprised if you try to brace yourself against a wall and it caves in.
6. Wood Galleries
We aren’t talking about an art gallery here, termites form tunnels in wood, and you won’t be able to see this from the outside. If you suspect that there’re termites within the property, there are certain tools you can use to detect their presence. Such include infrared detectors, borescopes odor detectors, or even dogs.
7. Termite Droppings
Termite droppings or frass is a good indicator of termite presence. They like to keep their homes clean and will push out their fecal matter from the nest. If you think you may have an infestation, check for a dark powdery substance.
The powdery stuff is indicative of termite poop, and you’ll know for sure that you have unwelcome guests.
8. Fallen Trees or Wood Structures
Unless you live in an area that has a lot of storms which could fell trees, fallen trees, could be indicative of termite infestation. Termites will not leave any wood in their way as they look for a food source. Look for small holes or termite dust along the base of the tree.
If you dig slightly below the soil level near the roots, you may find some dead termites all wings. The same goes for the exterior of the wood. If there’s moisture damage, it’ll attract the termites, especially if you’re dealing with the subterranean species.
9. Other Signs to Watch Out For
Watch out for any of these signs:-
• Drooping or discolored drywall
• Blistering, bubbling and peeling paint
• Small holes that look like a pinpoint in your drywall
• Buckling laminate or wooden floorboards
• Loose floor tiles
• Squeaky floorboards
• Doors and windows that are stuck
• Hollow or sagging floors
• Tree nests
• Mud like earth packing on surfaces, foundation walls for joints
What you Should do when you See Signs of Termite Infestation
We already alluded to the fact that termites are very sneaky creatures. In most cases, by the time you spot them, there’ll be quite a bit of damage already. It’ll be a good idea for you to get an expert to investigate thoroughly.
Someone with the requisite training will be able to spot what you may not see. Do-it-yourself termite extermination may not take care of the larger problem as they’ll return. A professional knows what to look out for, and the best treatment methods.
You should also schedule annual checks to keep your property safe.
Keep your Property Termite Free
Termites may be small, but they live in huge colonies, which can cause untold damage. We have shared with you the things you should look out for which will give you an indication of signs of termites on your property. The damage they can cause will run into thousands of dollars when you’re trying to repair them.
It’ll be cheaper for you to take care of the problem before it reaches unmanageable levels. Talk to us; our team will be able to help you with any pest infestation problems.
