Every year, Americans spend over five billion dollars on property damage caused by termite infestations.
Termites are small, wood-eating insects that can cause costly structural damage to your home if they’re not taken care of right away. Getting rid of termites can be a challenge, but it’s important to be on the lookout for signs of an infestation.
Knowing what to look for can save you a lot of time and money in the long run. Read on to learn the three telltale signs you have termites in your home.
1. Mud Tubes
Mud tubes are one of the most common signs of termites. These tubes are made out of a mixture of dirt and saliva, and they’re used by termites to travel from the ground to your home.
They usually form on the outside of your home, but they can also be found on the inside if there’s an infestation. If you see mud tubes, it’s time to start planning for termite treatment.
2. Swarmers
Another sign of termites is swarmers. They’re usually dark in color and are attracted to light, so you might see them near windows or doors. Swarmers are most active in the spring, but you can also find them in the fall.
Swarmers are termites that have wings and are looking to start a new colony. Once they find a mate, they discard their wings and get to work building a new nest. If you find tiny little bug wings in your home, it’s a good indicator that you have termites.
3. Damaged or Hollow Wood
Termites create tiny tunnels (called termite galleries) through wood, eating as they go. Look for tiny exit holes with termite droppings nearby. These droppings look a lot like sawdust.
One of the classic signs of termites is damage to exposed wood in your home. They will eat through any wooden structure like floors, walls, and furniture. Pay attention to stuck windows, deteriorating baseboards, or sagging ceilings.
The damage might not be visible at first. But if you tap on the wood and it sounds hollow, that’s a good indicator that termites have eaten away at it.
Some damage might be hidden behind wallpaper or paint. If you see sunken areas, buckling wood, or bubbling paint, termites might be the culprit!
Don’t Ignore Any Signs You Have Termites
The sooner you catch a termite infestation, the easier it will be to get rid of them. And the less damage they’ll do to your home. So if you think you might have termites, don’t wait to call an exterminator!
For the best results, ask your exterminator about green pest services. They will be able to help you get rid of your termite problem without exposing your family or pets to harmful chemicals.
Know When to Call in the Pros
While there are some DIY methods for getting rid of all types of termites, those methods can be risky. If you want comprehensive pest control, leave it to the professionals. They have the experience and knowledge to get rid of them quickly and efficiently.
Not sure if you have termites? Call a professional exterminator to come and take a look for signs you have termites. They’ll be able to tell you for sure and help you get rid of them!
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