How to Know if You Have Termites?

Termites are often referred to as 'silent destroyers' due to their ability to cause significant damage to wooden structures in and around your home without being easily detected.

These elusive pests can create a costly headache for homeowners, making early detection and intervention crucial in preventing extensive damage and expensive repairs.

Published: July 13, 2023.

What Kind Of Termites Are Most Common Pests In The US?

In the United States, the most common termite pests are subterranean termites, specifically the Eastern subterranean termite (Reticulitermes flavipes).

These termites are found in almost every state except for Alaska and are responsible for the majority of the termite-related damage to homes and structures across the country.

Subterranean termites thrive in moist environments and build their nests underground, using mud tubes to travel between their nests and the wooden structures they feed on.

They are particularly prevalent in the southeastern states, where the warm and humid climate provides ideal conditions for their growth and reproduction.

Other common termite species in the United States include:

Formosan subterranean termite (Coptotermes formosanus): This invasive species, originally from East Asia, is mainly found in the southern United States, including Gulf Coast states like Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, as well as Texas, and California.

Formosan termites are known for their aggressive behavior and large colonies, which can cause extensive damage in a short period.

Western subterranean termite (Reticulitermes hesperus): This species is primarily found in the western states, from Washington down to California, and eastward to Idaho, Nevada, and western Colorado.

Drywood termites: While not as widespread as subterranean termites, drywood termites are still a significant pest in some parts of the country. The Southeastern drywood termite (Incisitermes snyderi) and the Western drywood termite (Incisitermes minor) are common in the southern and western United States, respectively. These termites live within the wood they infest and do not require contact with the soil.

Regardless of the species, termites can cause extensive damage if left untreated. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and preventative measures can help protect your home from these destructive pests.

If you suspect a termite infestation, contact a professional pest control expert for an inspection and appropriate treatment options.

Early Signs Of Termite Infestation

Termites are silent destroyers that can cause significant damage to your home or property if left undetected.

Early detection is crucial in preventing extensive damage and costly repairs. Here are some early signs of termite infestation to watch out for:

• Mud tubes: Subterranean termites build mud tubes, also known as shelter tubes, to travel between the soil and the wooden structures they feed on. These tubes are usually found around the foundation of a building, on walls, or near any wooden structures.
• Discarded wings: Reproductive termites, called swarmers or alates, have wings and fly in search of a new location to establish a colony. Once they find a suitable location, they shed their wings. If you find small, discarded wings near your windows, doors, or other openings, it could be a sign of termite infestation.
• Hollow or damaged wood: Termites consume cellulose found in wood, leaving behind a hollow or honeycombed structure. If you tap on wooden surfaces and hear a hollow or papery sound, it may be an indication of termite damage.
• Frass (termite droppings): Drywood termites produce small, pellet-like droppings called frass. These droppings accumulate near the entrance of their tunnels or nest. If you notice piles of tiny pellets around your home, it may be a sign of termite activity.
• Bubbling or uneven paint: Termites can cause paint to bubble or peel due to the moisture they bring while tunneling through wood. If you notice paint abnormalities that are not due to water damage, it could be a sign of termites.
• Swarms: If you see a swarm of insects, especially around dusk or after rain, it might be a sign of a termite infestation. Swarming termites are attracted to light and are often seen near windows or light fixtures.
• Clicking sounds: If you hear faint clicking sounds coming from your walls, it could be a sign of termites. Soldier termites produce a clicking sound when they bang their heads against the tunnel walls to signal danger to the rest of the colony.

If you suspect a termite infestation, it's best to contact a professional pest control company for an inspection and appropriate treatment options.

Regular inspections and preventative measures can help protect your property from these destructive pests.

Who Are More Difficult To Spot At Home, Subterranean Termites Or Drywood Termites?

Both subterranean and drywood termites can be challenging to spot, as they are often hidden within the structure of your home. However, subterranean termites are generally considered more difficult to detect because of their underground nests and their habit of tunneling through mud tubes.

This behavior allows them to remain hidden from view while they travel between their nests in the soil and the wooden structures they feed on.

Drywood termites, on the other hand, live within the wood they infest, which can make their presence more apparent over time. You may spot signs of their activity, such as small piles of frass (termite droppings) and discarded wings from swarmers.

While these signs may be easier to notice than subterranean termite activity, drywood termites can still remain hidden within the wood for extended periods before their presence is detected.

In both cases, early detection is crucial to minimize damage and reduce the cost of repairs. Regular inspections by a professional pest control expert can help identify termite activity and provide appropriate treatment options.

Additionally, implementing preventive measures, such as reducing moisture around your home and using termite-resistant building materials, can help protect your property from these destructive pests.