Termites are a year-round problem here in Florida, but we see an increase in termite activity in the spring and summer. The biggest danger of termites is the fact that they can spread for some time before being noticed. Oftentimes, termites aren’t discovered until significant damage has been done to a home or business. For this reason, it’s crucial to learn the earliest signs of termite activity. In doing so, you can hopefully prevent a full-blown infestation in your home. With termite infestations on the rise this time of year, Heron Home & Outdoor is here to share expert info on the signs of termites to keep your eye out for.

Top 5 Signs of Termite Activity

Termites work within the structure of your home, making it difficult to notice their presence until they’ve caused some damage. The following signs of their activity warrant an immediate call to your local exterminators:

1. Termite swarms. Every year, reproductive termites (also known as alates and swarmers) will leave their colony to mate and form new ones. Swarmer termites are frequently mistaken for other flying insects, especially carpenter ants. Seeing winged termites in the spring or summer months is a common sign of termites spreading.
2. Piles of shed wings. After they swarm, the reproductive termites no longer need their wings. So, they will shed them! Termite wings are all the same size and translucent in color. After being shed, they can often appear in a pile together.
3. Termite droppings. As they tunnel through dry wood as well as when they swarm, drywood termites create kick-out holes in the wood. This is when their droppings, also known as frass, can be found. Termite frass most closely resembles sawdust or coffee grounds, and can appear in groups.
4. Mud tubes. Subterranean termites nest underground but use mud tubes to travel. These pencil-sized tubes protect the termites from outdoor elements as it blocks out cool, dry air. Seeing mud tubes along the outside of your property is likely the number one sign of termites.
5. Termite damage. Seeing damage caused by termites is indicative of a serious infestation. Damage most frequently appears in wood around the home. Common damage includes unexplained cracks on walls, beams, and rafters. It can cause sagging wood in your floors, as well as hollow-sounding wood. Sometimes wood damage can lead to weakened baseboards and floorboards.

Need Help Looking for Signs of Termites?

Termites are elusive pests. If you think you have spotted the signs of their activity in or near your home, it’s best to enlist the help of a professional termite exterminator. In addition to regular inspections, a company like Heron can work with you to customize a termite control plan that provides long-lasting protection against the pests.