Knowing The Signs Of A Termite Problem

If you recently purchased your own home, and you live in a wooded area, the potential for termites invading your living space is a true concern. Knowing the signs of a problem is the first step in eradicating a termite infestation quickly. Here are some indicators that signify a call to a pest control service is necessary to ensure these pests do not cause damage to your home.

Check All Wood In Your Home

Termites will gnaw upon wooden surfaces, including the exterior siding of your home. If you notice any spots where wood appears to have been altered, with gnaw markings, holes, or pitted areas, termites can be the reason. Check to see if there are signs of sawdust in, around, or underneath wood that has been compromised. This is an indication that termites have recently eaten wooden items. Knock upon beams and listen to the sound that is made when you do so. If the wood sounds hollow, termites may be nesting inside, or they may have already eaten the middle portions of the wood and then moved on to other areas.

Look For Physical Termite Remnants

When termites invade a home and make it their own, there are bound to be some that pass away due to natural causes. When this happens, remnants of the pests are left behind in areas where homeowners may be able to see them. Check along flooring, window sills, and around beams for termite carcasses. They will likely be crispy due to a lack of hydration after death and will appear long and slender. Sometimes termites lose wings, as well. These will be opaque and resemble the wings of a fly, only thinner.

Be On The Lookout For Mud Tubes

Termites will construct tubes, made from dirt and mud, to use as a means to navigate from place to place without being harmed by predators. These tubes also protect termites from losing moisture, keeping them well-hydrated as they make their way around your home. Mud tubes can be found outside, or in areas where conditions are humid, such as in a cellar or crawlspace. They are often seen affixed to wooden surfaces, as termites will use the interior portions of wood to nest, and then walk toward the tubing if they need to forage for food in another area. If you notice these tubes in any spot in or around your home, contact a pest control service to evaluate the premises so treatment can be administered without delay.

For more information on termite control, contact a pest control company.


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