Signs of Termite Damage Every Property Owner Should Know About

If you’re looking to move to a new house, we always recommend getting a wood-destroying insect (WDI) termite inspection. The WDI report will reveal whether there’s active termite activity or old termite damage. Remember, there are over 40 termite species in the United States. Therefore, knowing whether the house had been treated for a termite infestation matters.

It could help you determine unforeseen expenses such as structural beams repair. Plus, knowing the type of termite species that had previously invaded could inform future termite control. Knowing the signs of termite damage even before a professional termite inspection is crucial.

Tips on Detecting a Past Termite Infestation

1. Damaged wood

Wood damage is one of the tell-tale signs of termite damage, specifically the eastern subterranean termite species. These termites feed on moist wood. Therefore, you want to check the drains and any wooden structures in direct contact with the soil, e.g., fences.

If the house has wooden floors, there are a few ways to determine whether the property had a past termite infestation.

• Sinking floors – These termites tend to feed on support beams and, as a result, cause the wooden floor to sag.
• Hollow sounds – Termites chew on wood from the inside out. Therefore, if you notice an empty sound when steeping on the floor, it’s a sign of termite damage.
• Water damage – Termites have strong mandibles capable of sawing through thin metal and plastic materials. In this process, they create moisture build-up and cause water damage, which will result in stained or softened wood.

2. Mud tubes

Subterranean termites build mud tubes that connect their food source and nesting site. They make these shelter tubes using soil, saliva, and debris, it’s for this reason they’re brown-colored. Check for these tubes along the brick foundation or dirt build-up to confirm that a past termite infestation occurred.

3. Termite swarmers

Termite swarmers are mature termites looking for mates to start a new termite colony. It’s usually rare to spot them as they congregate briefly.

Also, drywood termite swarmers are unpredictable, whereas the subterranean species swarm during spring. Their presence could mean that they are coming from your property and are off to find a new home. It would be wise to seek pest control services to prevent further damage.

4. Discarded wings

Termite swarmers discard their wings once they find a mate. So, if you recently moved into a house and are seeing wings on window sills or other surfaces, this is an obvious sign of an infestation, and you should contact professional exterminators immediately.

5. Termite droppings

Termite droppings are clear evidence of termite presence and signs of termite damage. These birdseed-like droppings and kick holes on wooden structures signify drywood termites.

6. Visible tree nests

If the trees surrounding your property already have large mounds on them, chances are termites have already infested your home. We recommend an immediate termite inspection from a licensed pest control company to check whether these insects have caused any property damage.

7. Rattling sounds

Termite noises inside walls and other wooden structures are apparent signs of an infestation. A termite colony will hit their heads when disturbed hence the rattling sounds. If they are indeed present, the house has likely sustained termite damage.

8. Ill-fitting entryways

Earlier, we mentioned that termites chew on the structural beams. Other than causing wood damage, they also result in a structural shift in the foundation. You’ll notice that shutting doors and other entryways might be a struggle, apparent signs of termite damage.

How to Treat Termite Infestations at Home

1. Nematodes

Nematodes are extremely small worms that can kill termites by discharging a bacterium inside termites’ digestive systems. All you need to do is release them into the soil close to an active termite colony.

2. Borax

Borax is a powerful DIY pest control method because it destroys a pest’s nervous system. Mix equal parts water and borax. Dip a brush in the paste and apply it on every wood surface at home.

3. Diatomaceous earth

Diatomaceous earth works by dehydrating termites and crushing their exoskeletons. Sprinkle it around your home’s foundation. Plus, consider using the food-grade one if you have children and pets.

Working With McDonald Pest Control for Permanent Pest Solutions

While a termite inspection is not mandatory, it’s wise to do one, particularly if you move into a new property. Based on the WDI findings, you’ll know the type of termite species that had infested the property and whether the previous owner got pest control to eliminate the pest problem.

Also, even though DIY may work, some methods are only useful for insignificant termite damage. McDonald Pest Control offers customized termite inspections and treatment plans. So, don’t wait until these silent destroyers ruin your home’s structure. Contact us for safe and effective pest control services today and begin with a free quote.