Termites can do serious damage to your home and possessions, fortunately there are numerous warning signs you can watch out for.

You might spot hollow or warped wood, as well as wings discarded and termite tunnels in the soil.

How do termites get into your home?

Termites are wood-eating pests that live in colonies. To survive, these termite colonies need access to plenty of food and places to build nests for their young.

Termites typically enter homes by creating mud tunnels from the ground to the house. Swarmers (termites that leave their nests in search of mates) may also gain access to houses through attics, foundation vents, or other holes that provide them with access.

Subterranean termites are the most prevalent type of termite to infest wood and infest homes. They can enter through any hole, crack or gap in your house’s foundation as well as siding that extends into the soil.

Drywood termites are not usually known for entering homes, but they can make their way in when swarmers of these pests land directly on wood to feed. Since drywood termites don’t build mud tubes like subterranean ones do, they don’t need to travel far for food – instead flying straight towards it!

What are the signs of termite infestation?

Termites are one of the most destructive pests, capable of wreaking havoc on your home without any visible signs. To avoid serious harm and costly repairs down the line, it’s essential to detect them early.

Fortunately, there are some telltale signs that can help determine whether your home has been invaded by termites. If you spot any of these symptoms, it’s time to call an experienced termite inspector for further assessment and remediation.

1. Mud Tubes

Subterranean termites construct mud tubes from moist soil in order to travel from their colony to food sources. These muddy-looking structures, about the width of a pencil, can often be found near home foundations.

2. Swarmers

If you notice swarmers flying in large groups near your home, this could be an indication of an active colony. They may appear similar to flying ants but termite swarmers have straighter bodies and two evenly-sized pairs of wings.

What can I do to prevent termite infestation?

Preventing termites from invading your home is the best way to safeguard it against costly damage and repairs. Not only will this save you money on monthly mortgage payments, but it will also cover any associated costs for termite removal or replacement.

Avoid Moisture: Termites thrive in damp conditions, so take steps to keep your home dry and free of leaks. Fix any leaks you find and inspect for dampness around your roof, gutters and air conditioners for indications.

Remove Wood From Around Your House: Wood piles and tree stumps near your foundation can attract termites. Instead, use mulch that doesn’t contain wood chips for protection.

Check the walls of your home for any evidence of termite tunnels, blisters or cracks – especially if it is made out of wood.

If you come across signs of termite damage, it is imperative to act quickly and hire a professional pest control company like Atomic Pest Control. Common treatments for termites include liquid pesticides, termite baits and foam agents.

What should I do if I think or discover that my home is infested with termites?

If you believe or discover your home has become infested with termites, it is best to contact a pest control company right away. These infestations can be costly to remedy and threaten the structural integrity of your house.

As a first step, inspect your foundation and any wood in or around your house that is 6 inches (15cm) above the ground. Be on the lookout for hollow or soft wood that gives easily when pressed with a screwdriver.

Next, inspect your attic for mud tubes (small holes in wood that termites plug with mud) and water leaks. These signs could indicate that termites have made their way into your home.

Termites are especially attracted to moisture-damaged wood, so make sure your gutters and downspouts are functioning properly. If you spot termites or mud tubes, don’t hesitate to contact a pest control company right away! Doing so could save thousands of dollars in repairs while keeping your home secure from further harm.

If you have termites in the Mesa, Phoenix, or even Flagstaff area contact Atomic Pest Control for a quote.