There are many aspects to maintaining a home and making sure it is in good shape. It’s a never-ending task, because everything is in a constant state of wear and tear. One particularly devastating problem that a homeowner might run into is pests, especially termites. Whereas other kinds of pests may just bring you inconvenience, a termite problem likely means structural damage to your house and higher costs. Unfortunately, termites are hard to spot, and insurance may not cover the cost of repairs. You need to be vigilant to safeguard your property against termites. Here are a few signs that you need termite control:
- Termite droppings – As is the case for many pests, the easiest way to find an infestation is by looking for droppings. Watch out for tiny pellets that are wood colored. Termite droppings may also look like sawdust or coffee grounds.
- Discarded wings – If you see piles of discarded insect wings near a closed door or window, you may need to consult a termite control expert. In the spring, termites shed their wings after swarming in a warm, well-lit area.
- Swollen panels – Bumps in the wall or raised floorboards are also signs of termite infestation. While they may look like water damage, this swelling is caused by termites living just below the surface.
- Hollow wood – If you knock on a wooden structure and hear a hollow sound, it could be a sign of serious infestation and damage. This is caused by termites creating tunnels within the wood. You may also see cracks, splitting, or other damage.
These are just a few signs that you need to call for professional termite control. If you suspect there is a termite problem in your home, it is best to take action right away.
