3 Warning Signs of Termites in Your Home

In the United States, termites cause billions of dollars in damage each year. 

Often times, the termite infestation is not dealt with in time, which leads to extensive damage and expensive repairs.

To avoid spending a huge amount on repairs, it is important to identify the infestation as early as possible.

Knowing the signs of these infestations will help you get the proper service. Continue reading to learn about the different types of termites you’ll find and the signs of termites you need to look out for.

Types of Termites

Before looking for a possible infestation, it is important to know that there are different types of termites you can come across.

• Drywood termites
• Subterranean termites
• Dampwood termites
• Higher termites

These four types of termites are the most common in the state of Florida. Looking out for the specific ones that are causing the damage in your home will give you a better idea of the signs to look out for.

1. Mud Tubes

Mud tubes are a form of protection and transportation for termites, making them one of the most common warning signs of a termite infestation.

Termites avoid light, and these tubes help them achieve that. They use the tubes to help them find food while avoiding light at the same time.

Mud tubes are made of their saliva and the soil, and are built from the ground to a wood source. Look around your property for these tunnel tubes to help you identify an infestation. 

2. Termite Droppings

When looking for any kind of pest infestation, droppings are another key warning sign.

Termite droppings look similar to sawdust and coffee grounds because they eat wood. They remove their excrement out of wherever they eat and travel through, which is typically in certain spots.

Going around your house and looking for these droppings can help you find a termite infestation.

3. Swarms of Winged Termites

Termites that have wings are called alates. They do not need wings unless an expansion is happening in the colony.

You can identify a termite infestation by looking for the wings they leave behind. The wings can be found around places of activity, as they are shaken off once they’re no longer reproducing.

Seeing a swarm of these winged termites is a very good indicator that there are more termites nearby.

Stop Your Termite Infestation Today

There are instances where identifying an infestation can be difficult, despite knowing what to look out for. 

This is where hiring a professional to inspect your home comes in. Here at Chet’s Pest, we have 30 years of experience dealing with pests and termite infestations. Whatever you’re having an issue with, we’re here to help you get rid of it once and for all!

Contact us if you are looking for any services or have any questions.