10 signs of a termite infestation

As termites typically remain concealed, you’re more likely to spot signs of a termite infestation than to see the actual termites themselves.

When conducting a termite inspection, here are 10 common indicators of termite damage to keep an eye out for, keeping in mind that there are 3 different species of termites which will exhibit different signs:

1. Winged Reproductives (Alates) – Alates are winged termites that leave to start new colonies once the weather warms. You may spot large groups of them flying together or a pile of the wings that they discard once they have found a new place to nest
   
   
2. Shelter tubes – A telltale sign of a nearby subterranean termite colony, these tunnels are attached to building structures and provide protection between the termite nest and their food source
   
   
3. Termite nest – While subterranean nests are harder to find, termites may build their clay-like nests as ground mounds, or up in trees. Make sure to check subfloors and within wooden structures
   
   
4. Termite frass – Look for termite droppings resembling fine sand or sawdust near doorways, windowsills or wooden floorboards
   
   
5. Clicking sounds within walls – When disturbed, termite soldiers will bang their heads against the wood to signal danger. In quiet conditions, you may also be able to hear the sounds of worker termites chewing through wood.
   
   
6. Hollow-sounding timber – Use a donger to tap on wood around a building. If it produces a hollow noise, termites may have eaten away the insides
   
   
7. Tight fitting doors or windows – This may not just be swelling due to humidity, termites producing moisture while eating away at interior structures can warp the wood from within.
   
   
8. Uneven floors, sagging ceilings or cracks in walls – As termites hollow out support beams, the structural integrity of the building is weakened. You may notice cracks or bubbling in paint, plaster or wood panels
   
   
9. Crumbling and easily-damaged areas – If a small knock to areas like skirting boards, architraves or other wooden structures causes damage then their interior may have been compromised by termites, leaving a fragile exterior shell
   
   
10. Power failures – While termites do not feed on the wiring itself, they are attracted to warmth and can damage the electrical fittings leading to short circuits. Check for muddy materials around power outlets

Termites can cause significant damage to a building’s structure while remaining hidden for months or even years.

As a professional termite inspector, make sure to arm yourself with the wide range of termite detection equipment available in-store and online from Globe Pest Solutions so you can detect termite infestations early on.

To learn more about the best termite control methods, read our article to understand which treatment method will best suit your job.