Signs of termites - how to tell if you have a problem
Termites don’t announce their arrival—they work in secret, quietly chewing through your home’s structure long before you realize there’s a problem. By the time the damage becomes visible, you could be looking at costly repairs that homeowners insurance doesn’t typically cover. That’s why catching the warning signs early is so important! Not sure what to look for? Here are the biggest red flags that subterranean termites might be making themselves at home—at your expense.
Mud tubes
If you see pencil-sized mud shelter tubes (also called tunnels) along your home’s foundation, walls, or crawl spaces, that’s a major red flag. These tubes are how termites move between their underground nest or colony and your home while staying protected from predators and dry air.
Hollow or damaged wood
Termites eat wood from the inside out, so everything may look fine on the surface—until you tap on a wooden beam or floorboard and realize it sounds hollow. In addition to hollow sounding wood, if you spot blistered or peeling paint, notice sagging floors or buckling wood, or discover maze-like patterns in the wood, that could also be a sign of termites tunneling just beneath the surface.
Swarmers & small piles of discarded wings
Every spring, after a good rain, termite swarmers (winged termites) take flight to start new colonies. If you spot a termite swarm in your yard, that’s a sign termites are looking to settle down and start a new colony. If you find tiny, shed wings around windowsills, doors, or light fixtures inside your home, it’s a good indication these wood-destroying insects are already infesting your home.
Excess moisture or water damage
Since subterranean termites need moisture, they’re drawn to damp areas. Leaky pipes, poor drainage, and water-damaged wood create the perfect conditions for an infestation. If your crawl space feels humid or you see moisture issues near your foundation, it doesn’t necessarily mean termites are already inside your home, but it should prompt you to fix the problem right away; that is if you don’t want to share your home with these damaging pests.
How to protect your home from termites
Subterranean termites are relentless, but there are steps you can take to make your home less inviting:
- Eliminate moisture
Termites thrive in damp environments, so cutting off their water source is key. Fix leaky pipes, ensure proper drainage around your home, and keep gutters clear of debris to prevent water buildup. Also, check for excess moisture around your foundation—small fixes now can help prevent big termite problems later. - Keep wood off the ground
Termites love easy access to wood. Avoid direct wood-to-soil contact by using concrete bases for deck posts, making sure siding and fences don’t touch the soil, and keeping firewood off the ground. A little separation goes a long way in keeping termites out. - Seal potential entry points
Tiny gaps and cracks in your foundation or around pipes can invite termites. Seal up these entry points with caulk or expandable foam to keep pests out. - Use termite-resistant materials
When building or making repairs, opt for pressure-treated wood or termite-resistant materials. These are much less appealing to termites and add an extra layer of defense against an infestation. - Schedule a termite inspection
Don’t wait until you see damage or other signs of termites—professional termite inspections can catch problems early and save you from costly repairs. Trained termite control experts can spot signs you might miss and recommend the best prevention plan for your home.
Don’t wait until it’s too late - Marathon Pest offers the best termite control around!
Termites are a serious problem in The Woodlands, and the earlier you catch them, the better. If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs of termites—or just want peace of mind—give us a call. Our team of experts can inspect your property, provide recommendations, and help you protect your biggest investment—your home.
Marathon Pest Control provides professional termite control services in The Woodlands, TX. We use the eco-friendly Sentricon® System to eliminate termite colonies, including the queen. Our trusted solution includes thorough inspections, tailored treatments, and a termite re-treatment warranty.
Whether you have an active infestation or want to proactively protect your home, you can rely on us. Let’s keep your home protected from termites. Contact us today to get started!
