Signs of Termite Damage

When it comes to pests, few are as destructive and as sneaky as termites. These silent invaders can cause thousands in damage to your home before you even realize they’re there. That’s why early detection is key. Knowing what to look for in terms of termite damage can help you catch an infestation before it gets out of hand and protect your home from long-term structural issues.

Here are some of the most common signs of termite damage you should look out for:

1. Hollow-Sounding Wood

One of the first things many homeowners notice is that their wood sounds hollow when tapped. This happens because termites consume wood from the inside out, leaving only a thin shell or outer layer. If you knock on a wall, baseboard, or piece of wood furniture and it sounds unusually hollow, it could be a red flag.

2. Visible Tunnels or “Galleries” in Wood

If you ever happen to remove a board or part of a wall and notice a maze of tunnels running through the wood, that’s a telltale sign of termites. These tunnels, or galleries, are where termites travel and feed. They’re often hidden beneath the surface, but if damage has become severe, they might become visible.

3. Mud Tubes Along Walls or Foundations

Termites require moisture to survive, and subterranean termites (the most common type) build mud tubes to keep themselves protected while traveling from their nest to their food source. These pencil-thin tubes are typically found along foundation walls, crawl spaces, or even in basements. If you notice any mud tubing around your home’s foundation, it’s time to call a professional.

4. Sagging Floors or Ceilings

Damage caused by termites may significantly weaken the structural integrity of wooden beams, joists, and ceiling supports. If your floors start to feel bouncy or your ceilings appear to sag, don’t brush it off as normal settling. These could be serious signs of internal damage caused by termites.

5. Doors and Windows That Stick

If you’re suddenly having trouble opening or closing doors and windows that used to function just fine, termites may be to blame. As they eat through wood, they can cause the frames to warp, swell, or shift. This subtle change in your home’s structure can create alignment issues, making it hard to open or close affected fixtures.

6. Discarded Wings

Termites swarm as part of their reproductive cycle to establish new colonies. After they mate, they shed their wings. If you see a pile of tiny, clear, or translucent wings near windowsills, doorways, or other entry points, it likely means a termite swarm has taken place nearby. Swarming typically happens in the spring, so keep an eye out during that time of year.

7. Frass (Termite Droppings)

Drywood termites leave behind what’s called frass, or termite droppings. These tiny, pellet-like pieces look a bit like sawdust or coffee grounds. If you find small piles of what looks like fine wood debris near the base of walls or windows, you might be looking at evidence of a termite infestation.

8. Peeling or Bubbling Paint

You might think you have a moisture problem when you see paint bubbling, but termites can actually cause a very similar effect. As they tunnel through wood, they can let moisture in, causing the paint above the damaged area to bubble, peel, or blister. Don’t ignore what seems like just cosmetic damage; it could be a sign of something worse underneath.

9. Noise in the Walls

It may sound strange, but if you put your ear to a wall and hear clicking or tapping, termites might be actively munching away inside. Soldier termites sometimes make noise by banging their heads against the wood as a way to signal danger to the colony. Though subtle, this sign can be heard in quiet environments, especially at night.

10. Visible Termites

Of course, the most obvious sign of a termite problem is actually seeing them. Termites are small, light-colored, and resemble ants but with straight antennae and a thicker waist. If you spot live termites, whether they’re crawling around inside or swarming near your lights, it’s time to take action fast.

Don’t Wait, Get Help Before It’s Too Late

Termites, known as “silent destroyers” for good reason. They can do damage without you even knowing they’re there. By the time you start seeing signs, the infestation may already be extensive. That’s why it’s important to stay vigilant and act quickly if you suspect a problem.

Rat Pack Pest Control is here to help. Our team knows how to spot the subtlest signs of termite activity and will conduct a thorough inspection of your property. If termites are found, we’ll create a customized treatment plan to eliminate the infestation and help you protect your home from future invasions. Don’t wait until the damage is already done. Contact Rat Pack Pest Control today to schedule your inspection and take the first step toward a termite-free home.