What are the signs of a termite infestation?

Termites are the most destructive of all insect pests. They cause more damage to homes and properties than any other type of insect. Entire houses can become infested with these tiny, almost invisible insects that are nearly impossible to spot until they've done considerable damage. But, although they're known to cause damage to furniture and the structure of homes, termites are rarely responsible for the actual destruction of a property. Instead, that usually happens because of their eating habits.
Termites are an exciting group of insects that, like ants and bees, exhibit a queen and workers. But, unfortunately, their unique anatomy allows them to build large nests out of wood, becoming quite destructive if not controlled. So if you see new holes in your walls or ceiling within your home or in other structures, you know what's causing them.
If you're unsure about the actual cause of the infestation, have a pest control professional inspect your property first. If you have termites, it's best to take care of them before they cause too much damage.

If you believe termites are responsible for the damage in your home or property, follow these six signs and things you should do right away. Then, you'll be able to get rid of them before they cause further destruction.

1. Termites Build Nests

One of the best ways to know that termites have infested your property is when they build their nests, usually between the rafters of a house or on the underside of a deck's floorboards. If you see termite droppings on your property, that's also a sign that they're nesting in your home.

2. Cauliflower-Like Clumps

When termites chew through wood, they often leave behind these cauliflower-like clumps of their saliva. A termite infestation on your property is a sure sign you have a termite infestation on your property. You'll usually find them attached to the base of old or hollowed-out wood structures.

3. Sagging and Wavy Boards

You can tell you have termites infested your property when you start seeing wood structures appear limp like there's some liquid in them. Over time, termites will hollow out these types of wood faster than usual, leaving them thin and frail. If you see a portion of your home's framework sagging, wavy or in any way deformed, it might be due to a termite infestation.

4. Stains Around Your Home

One of the first signs that you may have a termite infestation is when you see strange stains on your home's walls and other surfaces. These stains will appear as flat or glossy areas with no tooth marks from the drywall saws used by the termites. They'll appear wet, especially if the staining liquid is still active. If you see these types of stains inside or around your home, have someone come and inspect for termites immediately.

5. Dark, Dense Piles

When you start seeing piles of wood particles in or around your home or property, it's a sign that termites have infested your place. You'll see them under structures like floors and roofs, in corners and in small areas that aren't usually exposed to the elements. If you see these types of dark piles of wood material around your home, have someone come check it out for termites.

6. Louder-Than-Usual Cracking Sounds

When termites chew through wood, they usually make a louder than usual cracking sound as it breaks apart from the pressure inside. If you hear this type of sound coming from your wooden housings or other structures, it's an indication that termites have found a way to get into them. Keep an ear out for these types of sounds and make sure you have someone come check it out for termites if you start hearing them regularly. Your property's structure may be completely compromised and unable to hold up under the added weight.

Take Action Now

If you find termites on your house or property, the best thing you can do is get rid of them right away. If they don't infest your house, you can use their droppings to create potting soil. Otherwise, they'll chew through the wood parts of your home to build their nest. That's a surefire way to see your home fall apart.

If you suspect termites are bringing down your house or causing damage, call in the professionals immediately. Although termites are incredibly destructive insects, they can be easily eradicated when you understand the signs. To learn more about the signs of a termite infestation, contact an exterminator like Summit Pest Control at (234) 231 0740 as soon as possible.