How to Identify Signs of Termite Infestation
There is no denying the fact that all pests are extremely sneaky creatures. However, out of all the pests, termites are probably the most hated ones. All other pests tend to leave behind obvious signs of their presence. However, termites can go unnoticed for years or even decades, causing serious damage to our properties.
Luckily, if we have a clear idea about what to look for and where to look, it is possible to notice signs of termite infestation. As property owners, it is important for us to recognise these signs because it could save thousands of dollars down the road in expensive repairs. If left unattended, termites are capable eating away at wooden structural materials in a building round the clock and throughout the year without taking a break. This type of infestation can cause irreversible damage to a building’s structural integrity or even totally destroy wooden structures.
Mentioned below are some of the most obvious signs of termite infestation to look for.
Signs of Termite Infestation
- Presence of rotting stumps or decaying wood in any form outside your home creates a favourable environment for termite infestation. Break off a part of the stump and check for a mass of little white things resembling ants. Please remember that these white things are probably termites. In search of food, termite workers can travel as much as a football field’s length. Therefore, if you notice termites anywhere near your home, it is highly possible that they may have made their way into the wooden areas and walls of your building.
- Look for evidence of termite activity, if there are places outside your home where the soil is touched by the wood. If it appears that the wood has been damaged by carving knives, it is a clear indication that termites are at work in that area.
- When a termite colony matures, termite reproductives referred to as alates or termite swarmers are sent out to start new colonies. If you notice shed wings in places such as decks or patios, foundation walls, or window sills, it indicates that termite swarmers have come and gone.
- Termite swarmers are seen rarely because they appear no more than just once or twice per year, and for just around 30 minutes or so. If you actually see them outside your home or office, there is no doubt about the presence of a mature colony around or even inside the building.
- Worker termites build mud shelter tubes to keep themselves protected from the harmful effects of the sun and air. These tubes are most commonly found in shady, hidden spots on crawl space cement blocks or foundations. Sometimes, these tubes are built up through even concrete blocks.
- If your hearing is great, you may be able to hear noises in areas in a building that are infested with termites. These noises result from the banging of their heads against the walls by soldier termites. These sounds resemble a faint clicking noise.
If you notice any of these signs, contact our experts immediately at Exterra. Our advanced termite colony elimination systems provide complete protection from all types of termite activities.
