Early Warning Signs of Termites

Every year, termites cause billions in damages throughout the United States. Termite infestations are not usually caught until the damage is already done. Most termites go unnoticed in homes or businesses until they’ve left thousands of dollars in damage, mainly because people don’t know what to look for. It can be hard to keep an eye on every nook and cranny. Termites are also a low-key pest. They’re no harm to humans and know how to stay out of the spotlight. There are several key things to look for to prevent termites in your home.

The Difference Between Termites and Ants

Most people confuse ants for termites. Termites only have a thorax and head, while ants have both plus an abdomen. Termites are also usually lighter in color. Termite wings are larger than ants, usually double the size of the termite’s body. Ants use wood to burrow, while termites use wood for nutrition.

Termite Pellets Look a lot Like Sawdust

Since termites use wood as a food source, you’ll notice droplets that look like small piles of sawdust. You won’t find droppings in the wood, as termites like to keep their tunnels clean. Keep an eye out for droppings almost anywhere around the home.

As the Weather Warms, the Great Wing Shed Begins

Termites swarm in the Spring, to areas with a lot of warmth and light. Once they reach their destination, they shred their wings. You’ll find wings discarded in entry points around the home, like windows or doors. If you have a colony, you’ll see lots of wings in these areas.

Be Termite Vigilant, from Dirt to Wood

Termites create mud tubes, made of soil or dirt around the home. You’ll see mud tubes on wood, in cooler, shaded areas around the home. That’s because the termites use the tubes to travel to food sources and avoid the elements. Termites work from outside in, so your wood will be hollow if you have an infestation.

If there are parts of the exterior of your home where dirt touches the wood, it could become a breeding ground for termites. The wood will look like it’s been scraped with a knife, and will feel rough to the touch. Termites can travel as far as Bo Jackson returning a kickoff for a touchdown, so inspect the entire area of the home.

Termites Will Travel from a Tree to Your Home

Because they’re willing to go the distance of a football field, it makes sense to keep an eye on the trees around your home. Remove any rotting tree stumps around your home before they become breeding grounds. Remove part of the stump first, and inspect for worker termites, that will have large wings. Even if your neighbors have removed trees, check with them for any potential problems, especially if your house is within 100 yards of each other.

Think you have termite damage? Earthwise Pest Control is North Houston’s trusted termite experts. Contact us today for a free onsite consultation!