How Do I Know I Have A Termite Infestation Problem?

How Do I Know I Have A Termite Infestation Problem?
Subterranean termites are the main type of termite prevalent in and around. They form underground colonies in areas with loose, damp soil, or under the root system of a large tree. Such colonies can extend up to 50 meters away from an affected building.

Termites are also known for building colonies inside furniture or walls. Once you know what to look for, it’s easy to find telltale signs that point to a termite infestation.

Termites, rarely seen out in the open, gives importance to look for signs in your property for potential termite problems.

Signs to Look For

1. Wings: from flying termites called “alate caste” are all of the same sizes, and they have a silver appearance. These are typically found close to the entry point where termites have gained access to a building
2. Mud tubes: can be found on the outside surfaces of slab foundations or stumps. Termites build these tunnels to be protected from the elements and to help them travel to their food source. This allows their travel to be unaffected by weather conditions
3. Termite Droppings: which look like small wood-coloured pellets, and can be found around areas where termites are active within a building
4. Hollow Sounds & Surface Buckling: When checking for damage, make sure you check walls or floor for areas that sound hollow when you knock or any bucking on them. Particularly if access is possible via the roof void or sub-floor.
5. Doors & Windows: Tunneling termites are able to warp the door and window frames making them hard to open or close. This is another telltale sign of termite problems.

Modern foundations are created using concrete, and even though termites do not eat concrete, they can burrow through little cracks within the brickwork or other cladding to gain access to timber floors and joists within the building structure. As soon as they are inside, a colony can spread very quickly as termites begin to feast on any timber that they can access.

A self-diagnosis of termite infestation is tempting, in an effort to save money. However, you do run the risk that if you overlook any symptoms and termites go undetected it can lead to catastrophic structural problems later on.

Therefore, it is always recommended to have a qualified professional to check whether an infestation exists.