Termites are a group of insects which consume a wide variety of decaying plant material, generally in the form of wood. Termites date back to more than 120 million years, to the time of dinosaurs. They are known as “silent destroyers”, because of their ability to chew through wood quietly. Each year, termite infestations cause more than $5 billion in property damage. What is a termite infestation? A termite infestation is when members of a termite colony enter a residence or other structure. Termites’ diet primarily consists of cellulose found in wood, paper, and cardboard. In nature, termites help clean up dead trees and other plant material, feeding off the cellulose in these materials. However, when present in homes and structures, a termite’s appetite for cellulose can cause severe damage.
Here are 10 simple signs that you might have termites in your home:
1. Peeling, Flaking or Bubbling Paint.
2. Discolored or Drooping Drywall.
3. Tiny Pinholes.
4. Stuck Windows or Doors.
5. Termite Droppings.
6. Mud Tubes.
7. Damaged Wood Trim.
8. Shifting Foundation.
9. Your Wall Sounds Hallow.
10. Dust Near the Bottom of Walls.
Termite damage happens slowly and over time, and that’s where the problem lies. Once a termite colony makes itself at home in your home, it can stay there unnoticed and continue to feed on your wood for several years.
Termite damage can be extensive and expensive to repair—especially when termites damage the structural integrity of a home. Unfortunately, even if you don’t see signs of termites, that doesn’t mean they’re not there. Termite damage can go unnoticed, and significant structural damage may already be done by the time damage is noticed. The best course of action is to call your local Pest Control technician at the first sign of an infestation.