Termites are described as unscrewing and gnawing silently into billions of dollars worth of homes each year. Preventing termite infestations can help to avoid losses that can total to thousands of dollars for repairs. Here are the tips showing how to identify termite presence.
Signs of Termite Damage
1. Mud Tubes: Termites have to create a pathway in the form of mud tubes, whenever used for moving on soil to wood or vice versa.
2. Discarded Wings: Termites lose their wings after holding their wings to swarm and this make them to drop them near the window and door.
3. Damaged Wood: Termites eat the interior of the wood making it to become weak like a brittle one.
4. Frass: The Termite leave behind pellets of sawdust as it feeds on wood; this is called ‘frass’.
5. Unusual Sounds: Knock on woods and if there is a certain drumming sound or if you hear a sound like a knocking or drumming on something empty then it is dangerous because termites have invaded it.
6. Sagging Floors: According to the severity, the floors can either become termite-infested or they can actually sink or sag.
7. Cracked Paint: When it comes to paint, the activity of termites may give paint that cracking and bubbling look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Impossible to say as termites have no antennae and only the winged reproductive forms resemble insects, otherwise they are vaguely ant-like.
A: Termites are small whitish and have straight antennae.
Q: Is it possible that I be able to figure out the extent of termite infestation on my own?
A: However, this could probably decrease accuracy, thus, professional inspections are advised.
Q: How frequent should I be inspecting for sign of termites?
A: Conduct annually, or at least twice a year in high-risk zones.
Q: Can the damages that have been caused by the termites be rectified?
A: Yes, but prevention is always better than repair bills and looking for ways to prevent things like this from happening.
Q: How does long does it take for termites to start causing damages?
A: Termites can cause harm to the buildings even in as little as 6 months.
Conclusion
Understanding the signs of termite and their activities is very important since it helps in preventing excessive damage charges. As can be seen from the above, being informed on the signs of termite activity, one can put adequate measures in place in order to safeguard his or her home. Remember, prevention is key. If you get your house inspected and arrange the termite control from time to time, then you will be saving yourself thousands.