7 Signs You Have Termites

Termites are a serious problem for both homeowners and businesses alike. These tiny insects cause significant damage to your property, and if left unchecked, they can render it structurally unsound. Unfortunately, termites are also notoriously difficult to detect, as they often operate quietly behind the scenes. Eating away at timber foundations and other wooden structures without any obvious external signs of their presence.
 
However, there are indicators that you may have a termite infestation. By knowing what to look for, you can remedy the situation before it becomes dangerous. One or more of the following seven signs will typically mean you have termites in your premises.
 
Swarms of Winged Insects
 
One of the most obvious signs of termites is a swarm of winged insects. These insects may be what are often referred to as “swarmers” and are actually winged adult termites. They emerge from their nests in large numbers to mate and start new colonies. A presence of winged insects swarming around your home could be a strong indication that termites are present.
 
Mud Tubes
 
Termites need to stay moist to survive, so they often build tubes from mud and other materials to travel between their nest and a food source. These tubes can be found along the foundation of your home or on the walls of any crawl spaces. If you find mud tubes on your property, there is a good chance a termite nest is nearby.
 
Wood Damage
 
Termites primarily feed on wood, so if you find unexplained damage to any timber surfaces or structures it could be a sign that you have termites. Look for small, pencil-sized holes in timber beams or other structural elements, or for wood that sounds hollow when tapped. You may also notice surfaces that appear to be "blistered," with thin layers peeling away from the surface as a result of termite damage.
 
Piles of Discarded Wings
 
As mentioned above, termite “swarmers” emerge from the nest to start new colonies. After they mate, they shed their wings, which can accumulate in piles near windows or doorways. If you notice these piles anywhere, you may have a significant termite problem.
 
Cracks in Walls or Ceilings
 
Termites can weaken the structure of your home or building over time, resulting in cracks appearing in the walls or ceilings and paint peeling or blistering. It may be insignificant at first, but it can grow larger as the termites continue to eat away at any surface or structural timber. If you discover any cracking, peeling or blistering in your walls or ceilings, it is worth having a professional inspect the building for termites.
 
Sagging Floors
 
As termites eat away at the timber within a home or building’s foundations, the structure can become weaker and lead to sagging floors. This is a very serious problem that should be addressed immediately, as it can affect the integrity of your home or workplace and is indicative of a large infestation.
 
Finding Termites
 
Last but certainly not least, the most obvious sign of an infestation is if you actually see termites in your home or business. If you find insects you think may be termites, you should book an inspection right away. Termites are generally only active during the warmer months but are active and feeding all year round.
 
Managing termite infestations should be left to a professional. DO NOT spray them or break open any termite affected timbers. This only kills the front line of the infantry. The termites then emit a defence pheromone, signalling to the others to leave the near vicinity, making it more difficult to locate and form a termite treatment plan.
 
If you suspect there may be termites present within your home or place of business, or if you have noticed any of the indicators listed above, please contact Eradicator Pest Services for an inspection on 0414 808 997.