Being a homeowner isn't always easy because of the many responsibilities that come with it. There's a lot to keep track of, from maintaining the property and paying the bills to deal with repairs and unexpected costs. However, one aspect of homeownership that's often overlooked is pest control, such as termite infestation.

Termites are one of the most common pests that homeowners have to deal with, and they can cause a lot of damage to your property if left unchecked. Termites are attracted to wood, so they can quickly eat through the structural beams of your home if they're not dealt with. Because of this, homeowners are encouraged to take care of termites immediately to ensure further problems are avoided. For this reason, one must know the common signs of a termite infestation, including:

#1 - Visible Structural Damage

If you notice any cracks or holes in your walls or floors, it's essential to inspect them for termites. Termites are attracted to wood, so they'll often bore into it to create their nests. This can cause extensive damage to your property over time, so it's essential to have any cracks or holes inspected by a professional as soon as possible.

#2 - Droppings

Termite droppings are easily distinguished by their small, cylindrical shape. You may find these droppings near termite nests or areas where termites feed on wood. These droppings are also attractive to other termites, so if you find them in your home, there's a good chance that you have an infestation.

#3 - Presence of Mud Tubes

Mud tubes are small pathways termites make to travel from their nests to their food sources. These tubes are made out of dirt and saliva and protect termites from predators and the elements. Mud tubes are a sure sign of a termite infestation and should be dealt with as soon as possible.

#4 - Noises from within the Walls

Noises from within the walls could be anything, but noises caused by termites are often described as a faint tapping or clicking sound. If you suspect you have termites, you must call an exterminator as soon as possible. Termites can cause extensive damage to your home if left unchecked, and the sooner you get rid of them, the better.

#5 - Hollow Wood

Since termites eat wood, hollow-sounding wood is one of the most evident signs of an infestation. If you tap on a piece of wood in your home and it sounds hollow, there's a good chance it's been damaged by termites.

In this case, taking care of the termites is the easy part. On the other hand, preserving the wooden structure is necessary. You can try to repair the damage, but depending on the severity of the termite damage, it might be more cost-effective to replace the piece of wood entirely.

#6 - Swollen Wood

Swollen wood is one of the most apparent signs of termite damage. Termites cause swollen wood by tunnelling through the wood and eating away at the cellulose. As the termites eat, the wood begins to swell and become misshapen. Swollen wood is one of the most obvious signs of termite damage and is usually one of the first signs homeowners notice.

If you notice any swollen wood in your home, you must have it inspected by a professional immediately. Swollen wood is a sign of severe termite damage and, if left untreated, can lead to the collapse of the wooden structure.

#7 - Flying Termites

For a more obvious sign of a termite infestation, you need to look out for flying termites. They usually fly in large swarms during spring and fall, specifically during the day. They're also attracted to light, so you may see them near windows or doors.

Flying termites are called alates and are the reproductive termites in a colony. They fly away from their colony to mate and start new colonies. If you see flying termites, it is a sign that there is an established colony of termites on your property and that the infestation is severe.

Conclusion

Termites are small insects that can cause a lot of damage to your home. For this reason, a homeowner must be vigilant and look for signs of termites in and around their home. If you see them, you must call a professional exterminator immediately to prevent the issue from escalating.

Roach Busters provides top-quality services for termite inspections in Sydney. Our professional pest control experts use safe methods to ensure your home is pest free, all for an affordable price. Simply go to our website to get a free quote!