Wondering if you have termites? One in three houses in Australia will experience termites. Termites are one of the most significant pest threats in the country. Termites cause billions of dollars in damage each year. One reason is that early termite damage can be difficult to detect. As a result, many people do not spot termite activity until severe and need expensive home repairs.
You can spot termite activity early if you know what to look for and prevent costly damages. The earlier you catch a termite infestation, the less damage you should have. Therefore, you want to be on the lookout for the following things, which can indicate a termite problem.
- Squeaky floorboards
- Stuck windows and door
- Wings
- Mud tubes
- Termite swarms
- Termite pellets
- Maze-like patterns in wooden surfaces like walls, furniture, and floors
- Loose tiles
- Peeling paint
- Droopy or discoloured drywall
- Damaged wood
- Hollow-sounding wood
Termite Wings
Wings are one of the best ways to know you have termites. However, unlike some other flying insects, termites are only flyers sometimes. After they have found a new home, they lose their wings. So if you find a pile of wings, which look a little like fish scales, it does not just indicate that termites have been on your property. It indicates that they have found a home nearby.
Termite Droppings
Termite droppings, also known as frass, look like small pellets. So if you notice mounds of pellets, you could have termites. Keep in mind that these pellets will be very small. Some people describe them as looking a little like sawdust. Termite damage can also create wood dust. So, if you notice any piles of materials that you do not recognize, remember is could be a sign of termites.
Termite Swarms
Swarms, which are big groups of flying termites, are not necessarily evidence that you have termites. Swarms may land somewhere temporarily and not settle there. However, if you see swarmers leaving your home, you know you have a colony in your home. In addition, if you see swarms around your home, they may be trying to establish a colony. Do not count on swarms to alert you to possible termites. Termites only swarm at certain times of day, and you can actually miss seeing a swarm.
Mud Tubes
Some types of termites build mud tubes. These tubes serve as passageways between their colony and their food sources. Some other types of insects also build structures with mud, so if you see mud structures in your home, you should be aware of some type of pest activity.
Not sure if you have termites? Contact Flick. Our pest control professionals can do a termite inspection. We can set you up with a plan to treat any termite infestation you may have, as well as preventative plans to avoid future infestations.
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