What Are the Signs of a Termite Infestation?

Any structure made of wood is vulnerable to a termite infestation. Drywood termites can burrow into the structure itself through gaps and cracks, eventually damaging the walls and floors, as well as the furniture inside. As they create their tunnel systems inside the wood, they weaken it and cause a lot of expensive damage.

You’ll rarely see the termites themselves, even in the midst of an infestation, so it’s important to know which symptoms to look for. Unfortunately, by the time many of these symptoms are noticeable, the infestation is usually in full swing already. Atlanta, GA is a high-risk area for termite infestation, so it’s important to keep your eyes open for early warning signs.

Signs of Termites in Atlanta, GA

Since most termites inhabit soil when they aren’t infesting a home or business, termite infestations usually start from below. Termites will travel directly from the ground to the foundation and then to the floors and walls. This means you’re only going to see signs of damage once the infestation is in full swing.

Here are the signs you’ll need to look for.

Termite activity. Termites, like every living thing, leave droppings behind. Termite droppings are called “frass,” and resemble sawdust. You might also notice piles of wings left behind by swarmer termites.
Damaged or hollow wood. Your walls, floors, or furniture may sound hollow when you knock on them.
Swarmer termites in or around the structure. These termites act as “scouts” for new termite colonies.
Mud tubes around the foundation. Subterranean termites, which are very common in Atlanta, GA, use these to climb from the ground to the structure.
Blisters in wood floors. This is a sign that termites have eaten away the wood from below.
Cracked or bubbling paint. This is also caused by structural damage; when the underlying structure is eaten away, the rest of the wall could buckle and change shape, causing the paint to warp as well.
Doors and windows getting harder to close. This can also be caused by hot and damp weather, but as termites damage the walls, they can warp your window and door frames.
Small holes in drywall. These are caused by termites burrowing into the walls.

In damaging your furniture, floors, and walls, termites can endanger the resale value of your home – not to mention its safety. Preemptive inspections from Inspect-All Pest Services are an excellent way to prevent these problems as early as possible.

Do I Have a Termite Infestation?

If you notice any of the above symptoms, you could have a termite infestation. Termites are especially dangerous because it’s hard to spot the signs until the colony is already very active. While some of the symptoms we listed may have other causes, it’s always important to rule out termites as quickly as possible.

The Inspect-All Pest Services team is on hand for regular inspections to make sure your property is protected from termites. If you suspect a termite problem, don’t hesitate to call us.

Back to Termite Identification

What Are the Signs of a Termite Infestation?

Signs of Termites in Atlanta, GA

Do I Have a Termite Infestation?