Winter is Almost Here: Signs You May Have A Termite Problem

If you haven't scheduled your winter pest control measures, it's time. You may have a hidden termite problem. Unfortunately, termites can cause significant damage to your home, especially if the problem is left untreated for too long. In many states, the climate is conducive to termite activity throughout the year.



That's why it's crucial that you're aware of the signs of a termite infestation. Identifying these signs early lets you take fast action. That way, you can prevent further damage. Here are five signs that may indicate a termite infestation in your home.

Neighborhood Issues

When termites are active, they can invade neighboring houses. That's why it's a good idea to check with your neighbors from time to time. If any of your neighbors end up with a termite infestation, you should start treatment for your own home. Being proactive can help you avoid your own termite infestation. 

Discarded Wings

After termites reach maturity, they go in search of a suitable location to establish a new colony. During this time, termites swarm and discard their wings. This is a sign that termites have established their new colony.

Finding discarded wings around the window sills, door frames, or other entry points is a sign that termites may have invaded your home. It's a good idea to check your home for discarded termite wings throughout the year. 

Clicking Sounds

When you have a termite infestation in your home, you may hear strange sounds coming from the walls. Unusual sounds are another sign that you have a termite problem. Soldier termites communicate with each other by banging their heads against the wood or shaking their bodies.

These movements create a distinct clicking sound that can be heard through the walls. If you hear clicking sounds coming from your walls or other wooden structures in your home, it could indicate the presence of termites. These sounds are usually louder when the infestation is severe.

Wood Damage

Termites feed on any wood they can find. Unfortunately, termite activity can lead to noticeable damage. This can include damage to the frame of your home, fences, and any other wood structures. When termites chew through the wood, they can leave a fine sawdust material near the opening of the hole or furrow.

If you think you might have a termite infestation, look out for hollow-sounding wood or wood that appears to be crumbling or weakened. Termite infestations often result in maze-like patterns on the surface of the wood. When that occurs, it can affect the structural stability of your home. 

Mud Tubes

Subterranean termites are the most common type of termites found in Massachusetts. Subterranean termites build mud tubes to protect themselves when the weather is dry. Subterranean termites can leave those mud tubes on the surfaces they travel on.

These pencil-thin tubes can often be found along the foundation of your home, on walls, or in crawl spaces. But, they can be found wherever termites are the most active. If you notice these tubes, it is a clear sign that termites are active in your home.

Frass 

If you're worried about a termite infestation, now's the time to check your window sills. Termites leave droppings behind wherever they hide. This can include window sills, inside cabinets, or along the foundation of your home.

These droppings are called frass. Termite frass usually resembles small wood-colored pellets. If you see piles of frass anywhere in your home, it's time to call for pest control services. 

Don't take chances with termites this winter. If you've noticed any of the issues described here, contact Best Pest Control Services. We can eliminate your termite problem once and for all.