Termites can be a real nightmare to have on your property. Unfortunately, almost every state in the United States is home to some species of termite, and all termites can wreak havoc on your home. By being aware of what kinds of red flags to look for when it comes to a potential termite infestation in your home, you'll be prepared to call for a termite pest control service if needed.

Presence of Mud Tubes

When termites make their way from the ground and into your home, they generally do this through the use of tunnels known as mud tubes. These tubes are actually made up of termite fecal matter, so they are brown in color and can typically be found running along an affected home's foundation or exterior walls. If you notice any of these tubes along the outside of your property, there's a good chance you're dealing with a termite problem.

Hollow-Sounding Wood or Drywall

Termites consume wood, so over time, a large infestation can result in large sections of your home's framing being eaten away. When this happens, you may notice that these affected areas exhibit a hollow sound when you knock on the walls. This can be most commonly seen around window and door frames, but any area of the home is fair game to a termite as long as there is wood present.

Windows or Doors That Seem "Off"

In more severe infestations, termites may eat away enough wood on your property to affect the function of your doors and windows. This occurs when the framing around your doors and windows becomes compromised, making it difficult to open or close them. If you've recently noticed that your windows and/or doors are becoming more difficult to operate, this could be a sign of an underlying termite problem that needs to be addressed.

Presence of Flying Termites

Are you noticing what looks like flying ants on your property or even inside your home? These could actually be flying termites, which are commonly mistaken for harmless ants. Flying termites tend to have flatter bodies than ants, and they will shed their wings occasionally as well. If you're seeing flying termites on your property or have discovered shed wings, it's best to schedule a termite inspection.

If any or all of these red flags apply to your home, reach out to a reputable termite pest control service to schedule an inspection today!