Termites are often called “silent destroyers” because they can cause significant structural damage before homeowners even realize they have a problem. By the time you spot visible damage, termites may have already been feasting on your home for months—or even years. That’s why early detection is critical.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common warning signs of a termite infestation, what to do if you suspect termites, and how to prevent an infestation before it starts.
1. Key Warning Signs of a Termite Infestation
Mud Tubes on Walls or Foundations
One of the most obvious signs of subterranean termites is the presence of mud tubes on your home’s foundation, walls, or wooden structures. These pencil-thin tunnels serve as highways for termites to travel between their colony and their food source—your home.
👉 What to do: If you see mud tubes, break one open. If termites are inside or the tube is rebuilt within a day, you likely have an active infestation.
Hollow-Sounding Wood
Termites consume wood from the inside out, often leaving only a thin veneer of paint or outer wood shell. Tap on wooden surfaces around your home—if they sound hollow or feel weak, termites may be at work.
👉 What to do: Inspect areas like baseboards, door frames, window sills, and exposed wooden beams for any weaknesses.
Discarded Wings Near Doors and Windows
After swarming (reproductive) termites find a place to establish a new colony, they shed their wings. Finding small, discarded wings near doors, windows, or light fixtures could indicate the start of a termite infestation.
👉 What to do: If you spot these wings, call a termite specialist immediately to inspect your home.
Bubbling or Peeling Paint
Many homeowners mistake termite damage for water damage because termites produce moisture as they eat through wood. If your walls have bubbling, peeling, or distorted paint, it could be due to termites tunneling just beneath the surface.
👉 What to do: Investigate any paint or drywall abnormalities, especially in areas with wooden structures.
Frass (Termite Droppings)
Drywood termites leave behind small, pellet-like droppings called frass. These tiny, wood-colored granules often accumulate in small piles near infested areas, resembling sawdust or coffee grounds.
👉 What to do: If you find unexplained piles of fine pellets, schedule a termite inspection ASAP.
2. What to Do If You Suspect Termites
If you notice any of the warning signs above, don’t panic—but don’t wait, either. Termites multiply quickly and can cause thousands of dollars in damage if left unchecked.
✅ Step 1: Schedule a Professional Termite Inspection
American City Pest & Termite offers thorough termite inspections to assess the severity of the infestation and recommend the best treatment options.
✅ Step 2: Choose the Right Termite Treatment
There are several termite treatment options, including:
- Liquid Barrier Treatments – A chemical treatment that creates a protective barrier around your home.
- Baiting Systems – Designed to attract and eliminate termite colonies over time.
- Fumigation – Best for severe drywood termite infestations.
✅ Step 3: Implement Preventative Measures
Even after treating an infestation, prevention is key. See below for how to protect your home from future termite problems.
3. How to Prevent a Termite Infestation
✔️ Eliminate Moisture Sources – Fix leaks, ensure proper drainage, and keep gutters clean.
✔️ Store Firewood Away from Your Home – Keep at least 20 feet between your home and any stacked wood.
✔️ Seal Cracks & Crevices – Close gaps in your home’s foundation, windows, and doors to prevent termites from sneaking inside.
✔️ Schedule Regular Termite Inspections – An annual termite inspection from American City Pest & Termite can catch infestations early and save you money in repairs.
Don’t Let Termites Destroy Your Home—Act Now!
Termites cause billions of dollars in damage every year, but early detection can save you from costly repairs. If you suspect termites or want to take a proactive approach to protection, contact American City Pest & Termite today.