Signs of Termites: Detect Termites Before Damage
Termites cause $5 billion in annual damage. Most homeowners don't know they have them until damage is done. This guide covers 6 warning signs.
Who This Is For
Homeowners in termite-prone regions. Home buyers and sellers needing WDI inspections.
The Problem
Subterranean termites enter through 1/32-inch cracks. Drywood termites need no soil contact. Both go undetected for years while colonies grow. Insurance doesn't cover termite damage.
Warning Signs
- •Mud tubes on foundation walls
- •Hollow-sounding wood when tapped
- •Discarded wings near windows after swarming
- •Frass—hexagonal fecal pellets from drywood termites
- •Blistered or buckling paint on wood surfaces
- •Tight-fitting doors or windows—wood swelling from moisture
Risks of Waiting
- âš Colonies grow for 3-8 years before visible damage
- âš Repair costs far exceed treatment costs
- âš Structural integrity compromised
- âš Insurance excludes termite damage
Treatment Options
WDI Inspection
$75-$200 (credited toward treatment)Wood Destroying Insect inspection per NPMA-33 standards.
When to Call a Professional
Call if you see mud tubes, discarded wings, or hollow wood. Also before buying or selling a home. Annual inspections prevent damage.
DIY vs Professional
Professional inspectors use moisture meters, IR cameras, and sounding tools to find termites inside walls. DIY misses 60%+ of active infestations.
Prevention Tips
- âś“Schedule annual professional termite inspections
- âś“Eliminate wood-to-soil contact
- âś“Maintain clearance between soil and siding
- âś“Store firewood 20 feet from house
Frequently Asked Questions
Termite damage vs water damage?
Related Pages
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