Checking for Termites

June 10th, 2020

Checking for Termites

Are you a homeowner suspicious of possible termite activity? Checking for termites is a must a few times per year. You should look for signs of termites every spring, summer, and fall, as different species swarm at different times of the year. Contact a termite professional at least once per year for a termite inspection and use the tips below to monitor your home the rest of the year.

Check windowsills and closed doors for alates

Alates are mature, winged termites seeking to find and build their own nest. It can be difficult to  distinguish these alates from winged ants. Most alates are active in the spring, but some species are prevalent in other seasons. They will be trying to get out of the house, so look along windowsills and closed doors.

Look for mud tubes

Most termites are subterranean. When they run into surfaces that they can’t burrow through, like concrete, they build a mud tunnel to go over or around it. Check for shelter tubes around the foundation, pipes, crawlspaces, attics, or other access points around your home. 

Look for and remove wood that can harbor termites

Take the time to occasionally walk your property looking for loose wood or features that could harbor or invite termites. Remove as many potential food sources as possible, and check other features for signs of termites.

Check for wood damage

If you are vigilant in monitoring your home for termites, you will never see external wood damage. Termites eat wood from the inside out. You will only have visible damage in a severe infestation. You can check for internal wood damage by knocking on wood and listening for a hollow sound or echo.

Contact us right away if you have any signs of termites on your property. If you aren’t sure that’s what you’re seeing, we can come out and do a more thorough termite inspection.