Termites are small insects that can cause big problems. They eat wood, and if they get into your home, they can damage floors, walls, and furniture. The worst part? They often go unnoticed until the damage is done. That's why it's important to know the signs of termite damage early.
In this article, we'll show you how to spot termite damage in your home and explain what you can do to stop it before it gets worse.
What Do Termites Look Like?
Before you look for damage, it helps to know what termites look like. Termites are usually pale or light brown. They have straight antennae and soft bodies. Some have wings and look like flying ants. These are usually swarmers, which means they are looking for a new place to start a colony.
If you see these bugs inside your home, it's a warning sign.
Signs of Termite Damage
Here are the most common signs of termite damage you can spot in your home:
Hollow-Sounding Wood
Tap on the wood around your house, such as baseboards or door frames. If it sounds hollow or empty, termites may have eaten the inside. They chew from the inside out, so the outside might still look okay.
Mud Tubes
Termites build tiny tunnels out of mud to protect themselves while they travel. These tubes are about the width of a pencil and are often found along walls, foundations, or crawl spaces.
Cracked or Bubbling Paint
Paint that bubbles, peels, or cracks can be a sign of moisture. But sometimes, it means termites are nearby. They bring moisture into the wood, which causes paint to act strangely.
Swarms of Flying Insects
If you see a group of flying bugs around windows or doors, they might be termite swarmers. They usually appear in spring or after rain. Finding wings on windowsills is another clue-they shed them once they land.
Tight Doors or Stuck Windows
Doors and windows may start to stick or become hard to open. This can happen when termites eat the wood and cause it to warp.
Small Holes in Drywall
Tiny holes or marks on your walls might be signs of termites chewing through. You may also notice fine, sand-like dust (called frass) near these holes.
Where to Check for Termite Damage
Termites usually hide in places where you don't look often. Be sure to check these spots:
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Attics and basements
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Wooden steps or decks
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Window and door frames
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Under sinks and behind appliances
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Crawl spaces and around the foundation
If you're not sure what to look for, hiring termite control services can help you inspect your home the right way.
Stay Ahead of Termite Trouble
Termites can do serious damage before you even know they're there. By learning how to spot the signs-like hollow wood, mud tubes, or stuck windows-you can protect your home. If you think you have termites, don't wait. Call trusted termite control services to check and treat your home quickly.
Protect your home before it's too late. Schedule an inspection today and keep termites out for good.
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