Signs of Termites in Walls: How to Detect and Prevent Infestations
Termites are tiny insects that can cause damage to wooden structures, including walls. If left untreated, termite infestations can lead to costly repairs and damage to the structure of your building or home. Visible signs of termites in walls unfortunately can mean you have a termite problem. However, early detection can prevent significant damage and save homeowners thousands of dollars in repair costs.
Why are termites attracted to walls?
Termites are attracted to walls because they provide a source of food (wood) and moisture. Walls made of wood are at risk of a termite infestation, but even walls made of brick or concrete can harbor termites if they have cracks or crevices.
Signs of termite in walls
Early detection of termite infestations in walls is essential to prevent significant damage. Here are some signs that you may have termites in your walls:
Hollow-sounding wood
Termites eat wood from the inside out, which can cause it to sound hollow when tapped or sounded. If you notice that your walls sound hollow, it could be a sign of termite damage.
Peeling or bubbling paint
Termites produce moisture when they eat, which can cause paint to peel or bubble on the surface of the walls. If you notice peeling or bubbling paint, it could be a sign of termite activity.
Mud tubes
Termites use mud tubes to travel between their colony and food sources. These tubes are about the size of a pencil and can be found along the walls, floors, and ceilings. If you see mud tubes, it's a sign of an active termite infestation.
Discarded wings
Termites swarm during certain times of the year, and after they mate, they shed their wings. If you find discarded wings near your walls or windowsills, it could be a sign of a termite infestation.
Sagging Floors
Termites can weaken the structural integrity of a building, causing floors to buckle or sag. If you notice uneven floors or floors that seem to be sinking in certain areas, it could be a sign of termite damage.
Tight-fitting doors and windows
Termites can cause doors and windows to become difficult to open or close by warping the wood. If you notice that your doors or windows are sticking, it could be a sign of termite activity.
Clicking sounds in the walls
When termites are disturbed, they make a clicking sound as a warning to the colony. If you hear clicking sounds coming from the walls, it could be a sign of an active termite infestation. See our video below to hear what termites sound like. This is them making clicking sounds in the walls.
How to detect termites in walls
Detecting termites in walls can be challenging because they often go unnoticed until significant damage has already occurred. Here are some ways to detect termites in walls:
Visual inspections
Regularly inspect your walls for signs of termite activity, such as mud tubes, frass, or damaged wood. Look for any cracks or crevices that could provide an entry point for termites.
Tapping and sounding techniques
Tap or sound the walls with a screwdriver or hammer to see if they sound hollow. This technique can help you detect termite damage early on.
Infrared cameras and moisture meters
Infrared cameras and moisture meters can detect areas of high moisture that could indicate termite activity. These tools are often used by pest control professionals to detect termites.
Preventing termite infestations in walls
Prevention is key to avoiding costly termite damage. Here are some steps you can take to prevent termites from infesting your walls:
Remove sources of moisture
Firstly, Termites need moisture to survive, so remove any sources of moisture near your home, such as leaky pipes or clogged gutters.
Maintain proper ventilation
Proper ventilation can help reduce moisture levels in your home, which can deter termites from infesting your walls.
Seal cracks and crevices in the walls
In addition seal any cracks or crevices in the walls to prevent termites from entering your home.
Use termite-resistant materials
Furthermore, use termite-resistant materials when building or renovating your home, such as concrete, steel, or pressure-treated wood.
Regularly inspect your home
More importantly, regularly inspect your home for signs of termite activity, and have a professional like D-Tec Pest Solutions inspect your home. We highly recommend minimum 12 months termite inspections.
By knowing the signs of termite infestations and taking preventative measures, you can protect your home from these destructive insects. Contact D-Tec to book in your Termite Inspection on 1300725758 or visit our bookings page.
