Termites are a common pest here in Australia. They can cause a lot of damage to your home if they are not detected and treated early. In this article, we will discuss the top 10 signs that you have a termite infestation in your home. Knowing what to look for is key to preventing further damage and costly repairs.
Hollow or Flaking Wood
If you tap on the wood in your home and it sounds hollow, this is a sign that termites have eaten away at the interior. This is one of the most common and obvious signs of termite damage.
Holes In Wood
Another common sign of termite damage is small holes in the wood. These holes are typically made by termites as they tunnel their way through the wood.
Tight Doors or Windows
If you find that your doors or windows are starting to stick, this could be a sign of termite damage. As the termites eat away at the wood framing around your doors and windows, it can cause the structure to become weak and distorted.
Dropping or Pellets
As termites eat, they excrete a small pellet known as a frass. These pellets are a tell-tale sign of a termite infestation. If you see these pellets around your home, it is important to call a professional immediately.
Discarded Wings
As termites mature, they go through a process known as molting. During this process, they shed their wings. If you find wings around your home, it is a sign that there are termites present.
Mud Packing
Another sign of a termite infestation is mud packing. Termites build mud tubes as they travel from their nest to your home. These mud tubes are typically about the width of a pencil and can be found on walls, floors, and ceilings.
Sagging Flooring
If you have sagging floors, this is a sign that the support beams underneath have been weakened by termites. This is a serious issue that should be addressed immediately.
“White” Ants
Contrary to popular belief, termites are not actually ants. However, they are often referred to as “white ants” because of their small size and pale color. If you see what appear to be small white ants in your home, it is important to call a professional to have them identified.
Damp Spots on Walls or Ceilings
Another sign of a termite infestation is damp spots on your walls or ceilings. These damp spots are caused by the termites eating away at the wood framing and causing leaks. If you see these signs, it is important to call a professional immediately.
Clicking Sounds
If you hear clicking sounds coming from your walls, this is a sign of a termite infestation. The clicking sound is actually the sound of the termites’ mandibles as they chew through the wood. If you hear this sound, it is important to call a professional immediately.
If you think you saw any sign of termites in and around your home, you’ll need a qualified pest control company to inspect your property as soon as possible. Early detection is always better to prevent any serious structural damage to your home. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to termites. A little bit of prevention can go a long way in protecting your home from these destructive pests.
