Termites cause more than $5 billion in damages each year in the United States, according to the National Pest Management Association. Many homeowners end up paying the costs out of pocket because these pests are typically not covered by insurance. And what’s even more frightening than billions of dollars of damage is that termites can go undetected for years.
Signs Of Termites To Look Out For
The majority of the time, spring is the season for termite swarms to come about. However, infestations can be active year-round. It’s important to know the signs of an infestation. There are many different ways that termites can cause damage to your home. These pests slowly, but surely, eat away at the structure of your home, causing extensive damage to its integrity. Here are the most common signs to look out for if you’re suspicious that you may need termite treatment.
Hollow Wood
Termites prefer to be in the dark, so they do not typically feed on the part of the wood where they would be visible. If you knock on wood in your home and it sounds hollow, it may be because the pests are eating it from the inside out. Doors, furniture and floors are all high at risk for undetectable termites.
Swarms
The number one sign of termite damage is flying termites, otherwise known as swarmers. Swarmers look like flying ants and typically take flight to create new colonies in the spring. The presence of these flying creatures or their discarded wings is a sure sign of an infestation and should be tended to immediately. Swarmers look for new places to make a living and can reproduce quickly.
Mud Tubes
Subterranean termites, the most common and most severe type of termite found in the home, can usually be identified by the presence of long, pencil-like tubes located on the surface of your foundation or piers. These light brown pathways are a good indication of an infestation and should not be taken lightly.
Termites can cause significant amounts of damage to your home if left untreated or gone unnoticed. Be sure to contact a trusted professional when seeking help or termite treatments.
