Termites pose a silent threat to homes in Four Corners. These pests thrive in the area because of the warm weather and high moisture levels. Termites work out of sight, so the damage they cause may progress before homeowners spot a clear warning. Thankfully, homeowners can handle termites effectively if they rely on professional pest control near me. Avata Pest Control uses high-quality products and dependable methods to fight termites and prevent them from coming back. Experts usually look for the following signs to confirm termite activity:
Hollow-Sounding Wood Surfaces
Termites consume wood from the inside, which leaves a thin outer layer intact. Tap baseboards, door frames, or window trim with a knuckle or tool. A hollow or papery sound may suggest internal damage. This sign often appears in areas near moisture, such as bathrooms or exterior walls.
Bubbling or Peeling Paint
Paint problems do not always point to moisture alone. Termites that tunnel beneath paint or drywall can cause pressure to build beneath the surface. This pressure causes paint to bubble or peel in small areas. These spots may look like water damage, but they may often appear without leaks nearby.
Tight or Warped Doors and Windows
Doors and windows that stick or fail to close properly raise concern. Termite damage weakens wood, which changes its shape over time. Frames may warp or swell, which affects alignment. This issue often develops slowly and worsens during humid weather.
Mud Tubes Along Walls or Foundations
Subterranean termites build mud tubes to travel between soil and wood. These pencil-sized tunnels protect them from light and dry air. Mud tubes often appear along foundations, crawl space walls, or garage slabs. They may also appear near plumbing lines.
Soft or Crumbling Wood
Wood that feels soft under pressure suggests internal damage. Use gentle pressure on exposed wood with a screwdriver or similar tool. Termites may have eaten the interior if the surface gives way or crumbles. This damage may be discovered near baseboards or support beams.
Discarded Wings Near Entry Points
Termite swarmers leave the colony to form new ones during certain times of the year. After the flight, they shed wings. Piles of small, clear wings often collect near windowsills, doors, or light fixtures. These wings resemble fish scales in size and shape.
Clicking or Tapping Sounds Within Walls
Termites communicate through vibrations. When disturbed, worker termites may bang their heads against tunnel walls. This behavior produces faint clicking or tapping sounds from walls or floors. These noises occur more often at night when homes remain quiet.
Cracks in Walls or Ceilings
Hidden termite damage weakens support structures. As wood loses strength, walls and ceilings may crack. Cracks may appear near door frames, windows, or corners. These cracks often start small and spread over time.
Sagging Floors or Ceilings
Surfaces may sag as termites damage floor joists or ceiling supports. Floors may feel uneven underfoot. Ceilings may dip slightly between beams. These changes develop slowly and worsen as damage spreads.
Maze-Like Patterns Inside Wood
Maze-like tunnels may appear inside when exposed wood breaks open. These tunnels follow the grain of the wood. Termites create these paths as they feed. The pattern differs from wood rot or other insect damage.
Increased Moisture Near Affected Areas
Termites prefer moist environments. Areas with hidden damage often show higher moisture levels. Baseboards may feel damp. Walls near damage may show condensation without a clear source.
Frass or Debris Near Wood Structures
Some termite species leave behind frass, which looks like fine wood pellets or dust. This debris may collect near baseboards or windowsills. Frass color varies based on wood type. It often appears dry and gritty.
Loose or Buckled Flooring
Wood floors may buckle or separate due to termite damage beneath. Planks may lift or shift without clear moisture issues. This movement reflects weakened support.