How to Know You Have Termites - Identify and Control

Recognizing the Signs of Subterranean Termite Activity

What to Look For

Early detection is the easiest way to prevent a termite problem from turning into significant damage. When looking for subterranean termites, keep a keen eye out for:

• Mud Tunnels: Also known as mud shelter tubes, these narrow tubes—usually the width of a pencil—are a clear sign of subterranean termite activity. They protect the termites as they travel between their underground colony and the wooden structures in your home.
• Termite Droppings: Subterranean termites do not typically leave droppings.
• Visible Termite Wings: Although only the reproductive members—termite swarmers—develop wings, discovering termite wings (be they front wings or back wings) around your property can be an early indicator of a new colony forming.
• Damaged Wood - Damaged wood may be from termites, rot, or other causes. Look for mud tunnels in combination with wood damage to confirm the presence of termites.

Inspection Tips

• Focus on the Ground: Since subterranean termites nest in the soil, focus your attention to building components in contact with the ground. This could be the foundation wall, columns, pipes, and other equipment. The presence of mud tunnels near this area is a sure sign of an active termite infestation.
• Focus on edges and corners: Termite tubes are usually about the width of a pencil (1/4"-1/2"). Sometimes these tubes are camouflaged in corners, cracks, and crevices.

How to Inspect for Termites Video

Taking Control of a Subterranean Termite Infestation

Immediately after Finding Termites

When you detect signs of a termite infestation—such as mud tunnels, live termites, termite wings from termite swarmers—it’s time to act. An active infestation of subterranean termites requires prompt intervention:

• Seek Professional Help: Contact pest control professionals or a professional pest control service that specializes in subterranean termites. Their extensive knowledge allows them to evaluate your property, assess the presence of termites, and develop a tailored treatment plan.
• DIY Versus Professional Treatment: While DIY measures might address minor issues, the best way to eliminate an active termite infestation is to enlist a professional. They might use methods such as installing a liquid termite barrier to stop the termites from coming back.

Monitoring and Long-Term Termite Control

• Follow-Up Inspections: After treatment, maintain regular termite inspections to ensure that no new colonies are forming and that the termite problem is fully controlled.
• Preventative Measures: Address water damage and moisture-damaged wood immediately. Correcting these issues reduces the attractiveness of your property as a food source for subterranean termites.

Preventing Future Subterranean Termite Infestations

The best way to safeguard your home is to prevent subterranean termite infestations before they start. Here are some strategies to consider:

Moisture Management and Structural Adjustments

• Reduce Moisture: Since subterranean termites are attracted to moisture-damaged wood, repair leaks and ensure proper drainage around your home. This will help reduce water damage and deter termites.
• Eliminate Direct Wood-to-Soil Contact: Avoid placing wooden structures such as decks or even parts of your home’s framing directly on the soil near your foundation. This minimizes easy access for termites.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

• Schedule Regular Inspections: Engage a termite expert for regular termite inspections. Early detection is crucial in preventing the formation of new colonies.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do termites eat pressure treated wood?

Pressure treated wood is designed to be more resistant to pests, including subterranean termites, because it’s infused with chemicals that deter feeding. However, if the treatment deteriorates over time or if other food sources are scarce, even subterranean termites might nibble on it.

Plus, they can still build their tubes on pressure treated wood.

2. Can termites eat drywall?

While subterranean termites primarily feed on wood, they can also damage drywall if it is in close proximity to their nest or if it contains cellulose. Usually, termites eat the paper backing of drywall and not the gypsum.

3. Do termites die in the winter?

Subterranean termites are highly resilient and adapt to colder temperatures by retreating into warmer, more insulated areas such as the soil beneath your home. They become less active during winter but do not die off entirely, which is why year-round inspections are important.

4. What attracts subterranean termites?

Subterranean termites are attracted to moisture and cellulose found in wood. Water damage, moisture-damaged wood, and direct wood-to-soil contact are common attractants. Additionally, food sources such as decaying wood can lure them to your property.

5. Do all termites have wings?

Not all termites have wings. Only the reproductive members (termite swarmers) develop wings. When you see termite wings (either front wings or back wings), it indicates that these termites are ready to form a new colony. However, you usually won't see termites with wings. Rather, you will see piles of their wings. 

6. How can you tell if subterranean termites are active?

Active termite tubes are moist and darker. Conversely, inactive tubes are dry and lighter. Plus, active termite tubes usually have termites in them. Break the tube and look for termites inside. 

7. How do you get subterranean termites?

Subterranean termites typically enter your home from the soil, especially where there is direct wood-to-soil contact. They are attracted by moisture and water damage, which often create entry points through small cracks and damaged areas.

8. Do subterranean termites eat wood?

Yes, subterranean termites primarily feed on wood and other cellulose materials. Their feeding habits can lead to structural damage as they consume wood from floor joists, door frames, and other essential areas.

9. Does homeowners insurance cover termite damage?

Most insurance companies and homeowners insurance policies do not cover termite damage, as it is considered a preventable maintenance issue. It’s advisable to review your policy and consider preventative treatments to avoid costly repairs.

10. How much is a termite inspection?

The cost of a termite inspection for subterranean termites typically ranges from $75 to $150, depending on your location and the size of your property. You should never accept a free termite inspection.