Termites are a huge problem to have in your home, especially if you live in warm and humid climates. These tiny creatures can cause you thousands of dollars in structural damage as they can affect the integrity of your building.
It is essential to look for the early signs of termite damage before these pests can severely affect your structure. This is part of the crucial things they examine in house inspections.
This article will run you through signs of termite damage to look out for in a building.
Ill-Fitting Doors and Windows
While hot and damp weather can alter how your windows and doors fit, stiff windows and altered doors can be a sign of termite damage.
As termites eat through building materials, the space between the frame and the wall will widen. If your windows and doors are fitting loosely or if it is now harder to open your doors and windows, then it may be a sign of termite damage.
Shed Wings
Termites lose their wings after they find the ideal place to mate. Seeing light-colored shed wings are another sign of termites. Depending on the species, these wings are 6-10 mm in length and are translucent. Some species also have gray or brown-colored wings.
Clicking Sounds in the Walls
When you live in a home for a while, you may notice noises from appliances such as your fridge or washing machine. However, if you start to hear quiet clicking within your walls, it may be a sign of termites munching through your walls.
Termites may shake their bodies as they travel or when they are communicating potential danger to the rest of the colony.
Mud Tubes
Once there is a colony of termites in your home, they will start to make mud tubes. These are yellowish-brow in appearance, starting from the ground to the wood they are attacking. These tubes serve as their home and shelter.
Wet tubes indicate a recent infestation, while dry tubes are older and can indicate an extensive colony. You may see them in noticeable areas such as concrete and exposed walls. However, you may also find them underneath floors, cracks, or behind the siding of your home.
Termite Droppings
If you find small piles of brown-colored pellets, you may have a termite infestation. These are termite droppings or frass around your home. These will appear separate from mud tubes as termites keep their fecal matter away from their tunnels.
Swarms
It is important to note that there are a variety of ant colors, but only a select few are white. If you see a white bug with a longer abdomen compared to ants, it’s most likely a termite.
Swarmers or “white ants” may start appearing in your home as they try to mate and create a new colony. Certain species of termites may be more active at night.
Tunnels in Wood
Are you noticing tunnels or holes in the wood surrounding your home? Termites can make holes in the wood as they munch through. This can damage your foundation and make your home unsafe. You may notice a hollow sound in the wood as you knock on it.
Conclusion
Although termites are small creatures, they can create significant damage and affect the safety of your home or building. It is essential to look out for the early signs of termite damage before it can significantly affect your home. It’s also ideal to regularly hire home inspection services to check for termites in your home.
Are you looking for a home inspector in Birmingham, AL? Let’s Do It Home Inspections offers high-quality professional home inspection services for homes of every size. Book your inspection schedule today!
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