How Do Termites Get in the House?

Termites are one of the largest pests that homeowners fight each year. They are attracted to organic materials that contain cellulose, such as wood, paint, wallpaper, and paper. In some cases, they may enter the home through foundation cracks, damaged roofs, or even through leaking plumbing.

When termites invade your home, they create tunnels, or mud tubes, to get to their food source. These underground tunnels are made from tiny pieces of soil and wood. The tunnels allow the termites to travel to their food source, and also protect them from predators and other external factors.

During a termite infestation, mud tubes are an important sign. They are often constructed by subterranean termites, and look like small mud patches or stalagmites in caves. The mud in the tubes helps the termites to move around and to access their food sources.

Another way that termites can enter your home is through wooden shingles and vents. Other signs that you have a termite infestation include holes in the wall or floor, and dirt mounds on the ground. If you have termites, you should take action to seal up any holes and cracks in the walls or floors, and to keep your gutters and pipes clear. You should also consider caulking any cracks in your foundation, and removing any moist wood that is in contact with the ground.

Termite swarmers are also a good indication of a problem. These flying insects leave large, pale-colored wings behind as they start new colonies. Some swarmers land on the roof of the house, while others enter through wooden eaves or window sills.

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