SERVICE REQUEST

Termites are often called the “silent destroyers” because of their ability to chew through wood, flooring, and even wallpaper undetected. Each year, termites cause more than $5 billion in property damage, which is not typically covered by homeowners’ insurance. Detecting termites early can save you significant money and prevent potential structural damage to your home. In this post, we’ll explore seven signs of termite damage to look out for in your home, particularly if you’re considering termite treatment in Lexington, SC.

1. Visible Wood Damage

Wood damage is the most classic and obvious sign of termite activity. Termites tend to eat wood from the inside out, leaving a thin veneer to disguise their activities. If you tap on an area that has termite damage, it may sound hollow due to parts of the wood having been eaten away. Over time, you might also notice your wood sounding more papery when tapped.

2. Discarded Wings

Another clear sign of termite presence is the appearance of discarded wings. Reproductive termites, or swarmers, take flight to start new colonies. After swarming, they shed their wings, which are typically all the same size and shape. Finding piles of wings at home entry points like windowsills and doors is a strong indicator of termite infestation.

3. Mud Tubes on Exterior Walls

Termites build mud tubes, which are pencil-sized tunnels located around termite nests, to provide moisture while they travel between their colony and food source. These tubes are usually found near the home’s foundation. Breaking them open can often reveal worker termites, which is a direct indication of an active infestation.

4. Frass – Termite Droppings

Unlike subterranean termites that use their droppings to build their tunnels, drywood termites expel their droppings out of small holes near the entrances to their nest. These droppings, or frass, appear as small, dark, and powdery granules. If you notice these around your home, it might be time to treat for termites.

5. Tight Fitting Doors and Hard-to-Open Windows

As termites devour wood, their excrement or moisture they introduce can cause wood to warp, making doors and windows difficult to open. While this can be caused by weather changes, if it occurs in conjunction with other signs of termite presence, it should not be ignored.

6. Clicking Sounds Within Walls

If you listen closely, you might hear termites at work. Soldier termites are known to bang their heads against the wood or shake their bodies when disturbed to signal danger to other termites in the colony. Additionally, worker termites are noisy eaters; if you put your ear close to an infested area, you can hear them munching away.

7. Paint Damage

Irregularities on painted surfaces often indicate a deeper issue. Termites can cause paint on wood surfaces to bubble or peel, similar to water damage. If you see this, it’s worth investigating further, as subterranean termites introducing moisture into the wood can also cause paint to deteriorate.

What To Do If You Find Termite Damage

Recognizing the signs of termite damage early can be the key to preventing extensive damage to your home. Regular inspections, timely recognition of termite signs, and immediate action are crucial. If you notice any of these signs and believe you might need to treat for termites, consulting with a professional termite treatment provider in Lexington, SC, can help manage and eliminate the problem before it worsens.

For residents in Lexington, SC, proactive termite treatment is a necessary investment for maintaining the integrity of your home. Protect your property by staying vigilant and responding promptly to any signs of termite activity.