How to Tell If You Have a Termite Problem
Termites can cause an extremely damaging effect on your home. They can eat away at your drywall and wood framing. They can also cause your paint to blister. They can even eat through the interior of your wall. If you think you have a termite problem, you should have it checked out by a professional.
One sign of a termite infestation is when the drywall is covered with mud tubes. These mud tubes are created by subterranean termites. These oblong tubes serve as a pathway for the insects to reach the food they need. They are made out of the insects’ saliva and dirt.
If you see mud tubes, break off the top piece of the tube and keep an eye on it for a few days. You may be able to see the insects moving in the tube when it is open.
Another sign of a termite infestation is if you notice tiny pinholes in the drywall. This means that the termites have eaten through the drywall and caused a weak point in the walls. This will allow moisture to enter between the drywall and the surface of the wall. This can lead to the paint flaking off.
Termites can also produce hollow sounds in the walls. This indicates that a lot of the wood inside your home has been destroyed. When you tap the wall, you can hear the walls crumbling and showing signs of major damage.
Another sign of a termite problem is if you hear clicking sounds coming from all over the wall. These are the same noises that other wood-boring insects such as mice can make. Termites often make these sounds at night.