Think You Might Have A Termite Problem? Look For These 5 Signs

Termites are every homeowner's nightmare. These unwelcome guests can compromise the structural integrity of your home. It is estimated that termites cost property owners $5 billion every year. The scariest part is that termites can do severe damage before they are detected. The most notorious species are dry wood and subterranean termites. They feed on any wooden structure found around your property. However, before you can learn how to get rid of termites, they can be stopped before they cause significant damage. To do that, you must be able to spot signs early. Keep reading to find out five common signs you have a termite problem.

Mud tubes

Mud tubes are often a sign of subterranean termite infestation. These tubes are built to act as a bridge between the colony and the source of wood. Mud tubes are made from a mixture of soil and wood particles. The termites build these moist shelters to protect them against predators. It also prevents their bodies from drying out since termites' bodies lack a protective cuticle. Mud tubes can be found on any surface, including wood, brick, and concrete. You can tell whether a tube is still in use or abandoned. Dry mud tubes mean the termites have abandoned it and moved elsewhere. This mostly happens if the tube was exploratory. But it doesn't mean they have left the property. If you notice any mud tubes around your home, investigate further. Schedule an inspection to confirm the existence of termites and find out how to get rid of termites.

Clicking Sounds

Termite colonies are organized, and each termite has a role to play. Soldier termites are in charge of the security of the colony. They protect the worker and reproductive termites from predators. Given the complex structure of a colony, they need an alarm system. The soldier has sensitive antennae that can sense vibrations in the surrounding. Whenever the colony is disturbed, soldier termites bang their heads against wood or shake their bodies. It results in a chorus of clicking sound. Alternatively, you can put your ears close to the wall and listen. Soldier termites are noisy eaters, and you will hear them munching away. If you hear any clicking sounds in your wall, get your home inspected by one of the best pest control companies in Polk county.

Termite Droppings

Termites are dreaded for a good reason. Although wood is their preferred meal, they also eat plastics and wood-based fabrics. What goes in must eventually come out the other end. Frass refers to termite droppings. Drywood termites are known for producing the most droppings. When the droppings build up, they are pushed out through openings of their nest. You will notice frass as powdery substances around the holes. If you see piles of pellets around the home, take action immediately. The best places to look for droppings are near windowsills and door frames. Early discovery of frass could potentially save you a fortune. Sometimes, the droppings look like coffee grounds or sawdust.

Discarded Wings

Termite colonies are divided into three classes. They include soldiers, reproductive, and workers. However, the swarmers leave mature colonies during the mating season once or twice a year; after landing, the queen and king mate and find a new nest. The timing varies depending on the weather. Swarming occurs for a brief moment in the morning, and you may not get to see it. However, termites shed their wings shortly after they land and find a home. They leave behind heaps of discarded wings near doors and windowsills. Should you notice discarded wings around your property, you may have a termite problem on your hands. Schedule an inspection immediately.

Wood Damage

Wooden objects are termite's meal of choice. Anything with wood in it is fair game. Generally, termites eat wood from inside out, leaving the wood hollow. You may not realize you have termites until only a thin veneer of timber or paint is left. There are modern techniques for detecting termite infestation in wood. It includes x-rays, ultrasound, and borescopes. However, there is a more straightforward way to see wood damage. Tap the wood or wall to find out if it's hollow. Sometimes, tunneling causes doors and windows to warp. You can tell there is significant damage when the windows or doors become too tightly fitting.

Get Help from a Termite Control Expert

Hopefully, you know the signs that have a termite infestation. The earlier you can detect termites, the less the damage. However, not just everyone knows how to get rid of termites. The bites and stings from termites can cause allergic reactions in some people. Fortunately, J.P's Termite and Pest Control is here to help. It is one of the best pest control companies in Polk County. The company has been assisting homeowners in dealing with termites for over 10 years. Our services include termite inspections, pre-treatment, and termite control plan. Contact today and schedule an appointment.