A termite infestation is every homeowner’s nightmare. These pests are practically invisible, and can do serious damage to your home before many people are aware of them. Fortunately, they do leave behind some very tell-tale signs, so it’s important to learn what type of evidence signals a termite problem.
When we inspect someone’s home for termites, we’re looking for just a few very particular things. We will either notice droppings, which look like little grains of sand, or we might discover discarded wings in window sills or other areas.
The attic is a common place for an infestation to begin, because of all the exposed, unpainted wood common in them. Plus, gable vents provide the perfect place for termites to fly into the attic, undetected, and begin setting up a colony. Often we will find discarded wings by these gable vents or attic windows.
There are actually two main types of termites, and they leave somewhat different evidence as they conduct their activities. Subterranean termites live underground, outside your house, and you might not notice droppings or discarded wings. The main sign of this type of infestation will be a mud tube, climbing the foundation of your house.
Drywood termites leave more typical signs, such as droppings.
After they enter your home, termites take about three to five years to establish a mature colony. At this point, some will leave the main colony and search for a new site to establish a satellite colony. Over time the infestation will mature into a network of many colonies and damage will be widespread and severe.
Obviously, it’s best to address any signs of a termite infestation as quickly as possible. If you see anything that looks suspicious, give us a call and we can check it out for you.