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How Do I know if I have Termites?

  • ccochran2008
  • Jan 29, 2024
  • 2 min read



Termites live and work underground and inside the walls of your house, sometimes eating away at the very foundation of your home, unseen and unheard – until, that is, the telltale signs emerge. Subterranean termites, silent destroyers with insatiable appetites, pose a serious threat to your property, and stopping them before they enter is best. However, catching them early may help to minimize the damage. So, how do you know if these tiny terrors have taken up residence in your house? Look for these signals:


The Telltale Signs of Termite Activity:


  • Swarmers: Witnessing a swarm of winged termites inside the home is a certain sign of an active infestation. You should also be on the lookout for large swarms very close to the structure, as if they are coming from inside the walls. These "swarmers" are reproductive termites venturing out to establish new colonies. Keep an eye out for discarded wings – delicate, transparent, and small – around windows, doors, and in attics.

  • Frass: Ever see tiny piles of sawdust-like material near baseboards, windows, or doorways? That could be termite frass, the excrement they leave behind as they tunnel through wood. It can be pale, brown, or even black, depending on the type of wood consumed.

  • Mud Tubes: These distinctive, pencil-sized tunnels, built from soil and termite saliva, act as highways for termites travelling between their nest and food sources. Termite bodies are vulnerable to dehydration and will desiccate and die in the ambient air; to avoid this they maintain their own micro-climate by building shelter tubes. Look for them along foundation walls, near pipes, roof rafters, or inside crawl spaces.

  • Surface Damage: Imperfections in paint, warped wood, or even hollow-sounding areas when tapped can indicate subsurface termite activity. Be especially vigilant around doors, windows, and baseboards, as these are common entry points.

  • Structural Woes: In advanced infestations, the damage becomes more evident. Soft floors, warped baseboards, and even sagging doors can all be signs of significant termite-induced structural damage.


Act Now, Don't Be Late:


If you spot any of these telltale signs, don't delay! Early detection is crucial in minimizing the damage and cost of eradicating a termite infestation. However, if you believe you have an infestation, you might consider contacting a lawyer who specializes in termite fraud and termite damage cases before contacting your pest control provider to see whether your home was properly protected in the first place.  


Cochran Bowers PC

2 Riverchase Ridge

Suite 150

Birmingham, Alabama 35244

205-460-1155

205-790-8882


Additional Resources for the Vigilant Homeowner:


Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney to discuss your unique situation.

 
 
 

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