Year in and year out, termites cause a lot of home damage that causes homeowners millions of dollars to fix through different pest control. For this reason, it is therefore imperative that you know the early signs of termite infestations. Be on the lookout for:
1. Mud Tubes and Tunnels
Some termites like the subterranean termites, the most prevalent form of termite in New York City, have very thin exoskeletons that dry up fast; as such termites utilize mud tunnels to shelter themselves from air dryness because they require a humid atmosphere to survive. Mud tunnels allow them a safe and easy passage from their colony to their food supply. If you discover mud tubes, you may need to search your house to determine whether or not you have an active termite infestation by breaking off a portion of the mud tube and inspecting it for live termites. Even if none is found, observe it for some time to see whether the broken portions are repaired. If they are, you know what it means.
2. Termite Droppings (grass)
Frass is just another term for termite droppings and is a vital indicator of termites, particularly dry wood termites. This termite infestation sign is always sought for during a termite infestation check. Drywood termites, unlike subterranean termites, do not construct their tunnels using their excrement. Instead, they urinate in little holes near the entrances of their nest. This results in little black markings and dark powdery material in and around the region in which they are infesting. When you get to see many of the an I’ve signed, it’s a green light that your house is most likely being infested by termites
3. Wooden Doors & Windows Getting Stuck
Please you have a window or door that has lately become stuck or has become considerably more difficult to close or open is occasionally an early warning sign of a termite infestation. Termites like to attack exposed and easily accessible timber, such as windows and door frames. As termites chew through the wood, the frames of your windows and doors may bend, making it difficult to open and shut them correctly.
4. Some Structural Damages
Aside from stuck wooden doors and windows, termite damage can cause other structural issues in your houses, such as disintegrating baseboards or drooping floors and ceilings. While feasting on cardboard and wood paneling beneath the surface of your walls, termites develop tunnels with tiny pin holes for the exit. They accomplish this sometimes without affecting the thin coat of paint or wallpaper on the surface, making this form of damage difficult to identify unless the paint or wallpaper is removed.
Termites can also make an interesting appearance on painted or wallpapered surfaces. As a result, termite damage is more likely to be discovered during house repairs and restorations. If you look closely, you may notice traces of termite damage beneath some surfaces. If there are damages you may be needing the help of exterminators.
5. Termite Swarmers & Discarded Wings
Whether or not you believe it, Seeing termite swarmers inside a house or structure is a telling symptom of an active termite infestation. Termites have a huge team that includes workers, soldiers, and swarmers. Termite swarmers, also known as alates, are reproductive termites. A swarmer usually removes its wings after leaving the colony and finding a mate. Because swarmers are drawn to light, they like to congregate around windows and doors. Since they hardly live long indoors, you may encounter dead swarmers or abandoned wings flying around window sills and entryways.
Conclusion
You must get acquainted with the early wings of termite infestation as they will help you make informed choices promptly. Do not wait till the damages get worst.