Without taking steps to eradicate them, termites can cause serious damage to your home or commercial property. These pests (often living and working underground) don’t always reveal themselves directly. By the time you discover evidence of a termite infestation, it may be too late to avoid costly repairs or intensive extermination procedures.

If you live in a home at risk of termite attack, however, you can keep an eye out for these telltale signs you’ve got termites and take action to protect your home.

1. Mud tunnels running to and fro.

There are approximately 30 species of termites in Australia known to inflict significant damage on properties, and subterranean termites are some of the worst. Living underground, these termites construct a vast network of tunnels heading towards your home. Sometimes, these tunnels are close to the surface of the ground and can be identified visually. The tunnels, often referred to as mud tubes, may be passing through your yard, even under your buildings, or up along the exterior walls.

2. Piles of discarded wings or swarming termites.

This is one of the easiest ways to spot the presence of termites on your property. When termites reproduce, young winged termites known as swarmers take flight and set off to create new colonies. This happens at different times of year (generally spring and fall) depending on the species. Though you may not catch the swarm in action, as they go, the termites discard their wings, leaving noticeable piles around your property. This is a clear sign termites are around.

3. Sagging or hollow-sounding wood.

Wood may or may not show outward signs of damage, so you’ll need to check around your home to determine if it has occurred. Some visual signs of damage include warped or sagging wood (including walls, ceilings, and floors). Occasionally, wood will have a damp appearance that could look like water damage. Wood that does not display visual damage may still be structurally compromised. Tapping on the wood with a hammer should produce a hollow sound or dull thud if damage is present.

4. Exit holes and “frass.”

A major sign of drywood termites is the presence of frass. As these termites ingest the wood on your property, they leave small exit holes, often located near the lower edge of an external wall. Nearby, you may spot a pile of their waste droppings, called frass. This fecal collection is wood-coloured and often resembles sawdust or pellets. Frass is considered strong evidence that a current termite infestation is underway.

5. Damage in your yard or garden.

Before termites reach the main structure of your home, they often start in outbuildings or in your yard itself. Keep a lookout for any unusual damage occurring around your property. Weakened, dilapidated fencing, damp wood piles, or even broken tree branches may all indicate that termites are present or could pose a threat. Consider pre-treating any fencing or other garden structures or using non-wood materials.

Termites in Nowra?

Early detection of termite infestation is always best, stopping major damage in its tracks as quickly as possible. However, termites can be hard to spot. Consider having an important yearly termite inspection to assess your home and keep it free of these undesired pests. To set up an expert inspection, or to seek assistance in getting rid of a current termite problem, contact us today at Termite Solutions. Our courteous and dependable team can promptly assess the extent of the damage and find the best possible solution for you and your property.