Termites cause billions of dollars in structural damage each year, and New England homeowners are not immune. These destructive pests thrive in hidden areas of your home, often causing severe damage before their presence is even detected. In honor of Termite Awareness Month, we want to help homeowners stay informed about the warning signs of termite infestations. Early detection can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and protect the structural integrity of your home.
Top Signs of Termite Activity
- Mud Tubes Along Walls & Foundations
Subterranean termites, the most common termite species in New England, rely on moisture to survive. They build protective mud tunnels to travel between their underground colony and food sources inside your home. These pencil-sized mud tubes are often found along foundations, walls, crawl spaces, or basement areas. If you notice these structures around your property, break off a small section and monitor it. If the termites repair the tunnel within a day or two, it confirms an active infestation.
- Hollow-Sounding Wood
Unlike carpenter ants, which excavate wood without consuming it, termites eat wood from the inside out. This hidden destruction weakens wooden structures and makes them prone to collapse over time. To check for termite damage, gently tap on wooden surfaces, including floors, beams, doors, and window frames. If the wood sounds hollow or crumbles easily, termites may be actively feeding inside. Sagging or buckling floors can also indicate significant structural damage caused by termites.
- Swarming Termites & Discarded Wings
Termites reproduce through swarmers—winged reproductive termites that emerge in early spring to establish new colonies. Homeowners may spot swarming termites around windows, doors, or outdoor lights as they search for suitable nesting sites. Even if you don’t see the swarm itself, finding discarded wings near entry points is a major red flag. Unlike flying ants, termite wings are uniform in size and have a translucent appearance. If you discover these wings indoors, it’s crucial to contact a pest control professional before a new colony takes hold.
- Frass (Termite Droppings)
While subterranean termites use mud tubes to transport waste, drywood termites leave behind small piles of frass—pellet-like droppings that resemble sawdust or coffee grounds. These droppings often accumulate near wooden furniture, flooring, or baseboards, indicating an active infestation. If you notice these tiny granules in your home, don’t dismiss them as dust or dirt. A professional inspection can determine if termites are the cause and prevent further damage.
- Tight-Fitting Doors & Windows
Moisture buildup caused by termites can warp wood, making it difficult to open or close doors and windows. If you’ve noticed sudden issues with sticking doors or windows, termites could be tunneling within the frames. This damage often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
- Clicking Sounds Inside Walls
Termites are noisy eaters! If you listen closely, you may hear faint clicking or rustling sounds inside your walls. Soldier termites also bang their heads against the wood to signal danger to the colony. If you suspect termite activity but can’t see visible signs, an inspection with specialized equipment can detect their presence.
Protect Your Home with Professional Termite Control
Early detection is key to preventing costly structural damage. A professional termite inspection can uncover hidden infestations before they become widespread. If you suspect termites, don’t wait—schedule an inspection with Cornerstone Pest Control today! Our team provides thorough inspections and effective treatments to protect your home year-round. Whether you need preventative measures or full-scale eradication, we offer tailored solutions to keep your home termite-free.
Don’t Let Termites Take Over Your Home
Termites work silently, causing destruction that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. By staying vigilant and recognizing the warning signs early, you can prevent extensive damage and avoid hefty repair costs. If you’ve seen any of these signs or want peace of mind, call Cornerstone Pest Control today at 603-395-9200 for a comprehensive termite inspection. Protect your home before termites have a chance to cause serious damage!
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