Termites are one of the most destructive pests that can infest a building. They are not only capable of destroying wood structures but also causing significant financial losses to homeowners.

Infestations can be difficult to identify, as they often go unnoticed until extensive damage has already been done. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the common symptoms of infectious termites. This illustrated guide will help you to recognize the signs of a termite infestation before it is too late.

1. Discarded Wings

One of the most glaring symptoms of a termites infestation is finding discarded wings near windows, doors, and other entry points.

Swarmers, which are termites that have reached the adult phase and are ready to fly, often leave behind wings when they find a suitable place to mate and build a new colony. If you notice any discarded wings, it is a clear indication that a termite colony is present in or around your home.

2. Mud Tubes or Tunnels

Mud tubes are another clear sign of a termite infestation. Termites build these tubes from soil, debris, and other materials to provide them with access to food sources.

The tubes usually look like thin, brownish-gray tunnels and are typically found near the foundation of buildings. These tunnels help termites to avoid direct contact with sunlight and air, enabling them to move around and feed undetected.

3. Holes in Wood Structures

Termites feed on wood, and their ability to consume it quickly and efficiently can cause significant damage to any wooden structure, including furniture, floors, and walls.

If you notice small, circular holes or tunnels in any of your wooden furniture or fittings, it could be a sign of a termite infestation. If left untreated, termite damage can easily cause wooden structures to weaken and even collapse.

4. Clicking Sounds

Termites are generally not noisy insects, but they make a clicking sound when communicating with one another. If you listen carefully, you can hear this sound coming from the walls or floors where termites are present.

The sound is usually faint and distinct in quiet environments, making it an effective means of identifying colonies.

5. Sagging or Buckling Floors

Termites can cause wooden floors to buckle or sag under their weight, resulting in uneven surfaces and a noticeable slope. If you notice any of these signs in your floors or even ceilings, it is a clear indication of a termite infestation.

In cases where the damage is extensive, you may need to replace the entire floor rather than attempting any repairs.

6. Presence of Frass

Frass is a fine sawdust-like debris that termites produce when they digest wood. This debris often accumulates in small piles in areas where termites are feeding.

If you notice these small piles of debris around wooden structures or holes in your wooden furniture or fittings, it could be a sign of a termite infestation.

7. Hollow-Sounding Wood

Termites feed on the softer, inner part of the wood, leaving the harder outer shell intact. This can cause the wood to sound hollow when tapped or banged.

If you notice any of your wooden structures sounding hollow, it is a clear indication of extensive damage caused by termites. If left untreated, this can result in the structure collapsing completely, leading to significant financial loss.

Conclusion

Termites can wreak havoc on any property, causing extensive damage to wooden structures and furniture. Prompt detection and treatment are essential to prevent further damage and avoid financial loss.

If you notice any of the signs mentioned in this guide, it is important to act quickly and seek professional help to eliminate the termites completely.