A termite infestation can wreak havoc on a home, and all too often, the damage is done before the homeowner has any indication that termites are present. But if you suspect for any reason that you might have a termite infestation, there are five common signs of termites in your home that you can look for to prove your suspicions correct.
Wood damage of a particular is a sure sign that termites may be present. However, more than a cursory inspection may be necessary, as termites devour wood from the inside out, leaving behind nothing but a bit of wood grain. Wood that has been fed upon by termites may sound hollow when tapped, and might even break if the damage is extensive.
Another sign of termites will be the long tubes of mud built along the ground leading to your home from their nest. The termites build these tubes in order to remain protected when traveling, and to help them retain moisture. These tubes are easy to spot if they run across concrete perhaps, but more difficult to detect if they are built along the side of a foundation, or behind siding.
One of the earlier signs of a termite infestation is a termite swarm. This can take place both inside or outside of a home, but usually last for only a brief amount of time, and often when homeowners are not present to see it. The termite swarm occurs when a group of termites, numbering anywhere from hundreds to thousands, leaves their colony to begin a new one elsewhere.
Another sign of termites results from the termite swarm. After the swarm, when termites disappear into the interior of a home, they shed their wings. These discarded wings can be found in various areas around the foundation of the home, such as windowsills or along the floor.
A fifth sign of termites is termite droppings, also known as frass. These usually appear in small piles beneath pieces of termite infested wood.
Safe Harbor Inspection, Long Island’s premier home inspection service company will guarantee your termite inspection. Contact Safe Harbor Inspections for complete details.
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