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Termites are some of the most destructive pests out there, and the worst part is, you usually don’t even know they’re there. They can slip into your home without being noticed and slowly start damaging the wood from the inside out while everything looks perfectly fine on the surface.
Even when the first signs do show up, many homeowners don’t immediately think “termites.” The damage often gets blamed on things like humidity, normal house settling, or other small issues. Unfortunately, that can mean the problem keeps growing until the damage becomes expensive and unavoidable.
The good news is that if you know what to look for, you can catch termite activity early and avoid major repairs. All-American Pest Control has been protecting Tennessee homes from termites since 1961, and we’ve learned how to spot the warning signs, even the subtle ones. Below, we’ll walk you through what to watch for so you can recognize a termite problem before it turns into a bigger headache.
Why Are Termites So Hard to Detect at First?
Termites spend their lives underground. In fact, for most termites, the open air is a danger that they have to avoid if they want to stay alive. That’s why you’ll rarely see a termite out in the open. The only ones that can survive in the open are reproductive termites, and even they only stay outside long enough to find a mate before returning underground.
When termites get into your house, they live in wall voids and wooden structures, out of direct light and open air. Because they don’t come out into the open, it can be hard to identify an infestation. Even when they start causing damage, many of the signs they leave behind mimic other home issues, like water damage or poor ventilation. Furthermore, homeowners don’t expect termite activity to occur in the winter, so problems that show up at this time of year often get overlooked.
What Sounds Might Indicate Termites Are Inside?
The chances of hearing a termite infestation are low, but it can happen, especially if you have a large infestation in your house. You’re most likely to hear termites in your walls when your house is quietest. Listen for faint clicking or tapping sounds. Soldier termites will bang their heads on wood to signal to other termites, so you may hear them doing so if you listen carefully.
Can Paint Problems Be a Sign of Termites?
Termite damage can often be mistaken for moisture issues. If your walls have paint that is bubbling or cracking, you may think that it has gotten moisture damage, but it could also be caused by damaged wood underneath. If the termites in your house create tunnels under the surface, it could disrupt paint adhesion.
If you see damaged paint, check the area for mold, moisture, and discoloration. If these are present, it’s more likely that the damage was caused by water. If you find pinpoint-sized holes or tunneling behind the paint, it’s an indication of termite damage.
What Are the Smallest Visual Clues to Watch For?
When looking for signs of termite activity, you have to know what to look for and where to look for it. Termites don’t leave a lot of obvious signs, especially in the early stages of an infestation, so it’s important to know the visual clues that signal a problem.
Mud tubes are one sign of an infestation. When termites have to leave the soil to get from one place to another, they create tubes made of soil and saliva to protect themselves. These often show up on foundation walls, both inside and out.
Another visual clue is finding piles of discarded wings. Unfortunately, if you identify this clue, it means that termites are already well-established in your house. Discarded wings are a sign of a termite swarm, which is when reproductive termites come out to mate. This usually occurs in the spring, after a warm rain, and in an area with a lot of light, such as a window.
How Do Termites Affect Doors, Windows, and Floors?
There are other ways to identify termite activity that don’t involve seeing the signs. A lot of times, you’ll notice issues when things stop working the way they’re supposed to. Doors, windows, and floors are three things that often reveal a termite problem.
If your wood-framed windows or doors become difficult to open and close, it may be because termites have damaged the wood. Floors can become warped, soft, or squeaky when damaged by termites.
What Should You Look for Outside or in the Crawl Space?
Termite activity always starts outdoors, so it’s a good idea to get in the habit of looking for signs of termite activity around your property. The good news is that they create the same signs outside as they do inside.
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Look for mud tubes along your foundation walls, near utility lines, HVAC units, and siding.
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Check for discarded wings near vents, light fixtures, and windows.
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If you have any wood posts that sit directly in the soil, check them for tunnels or other damage.
Can Odors Signal Termite Infestation?
Along with visual clues and parts of your house not working properly, you may also identify a termite problem by its odor. Termites can create a musty, earthy smell with their droppings and wood damage. This odor can often be mistaken for mold or mildew, especially if it shows up in moisture-prone areas, like basements or bathrooms, but it’s worth looking into if you notice such a smell.
How Can You Check for Termites Yourself?
Although the signs are subtle, termite activity is identifiable if you know what to look for. All-American Pest Control recommends:
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Looking for mud tubes and discarded wings.
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Checking doors and windows to see if they stick when opening or closing.
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Tap testing wood by lightly knocking on different areas to listen for a hollow sound.
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Gently probe any suspicious spots you find with a screwdriver to check for damage.
When checking areas for damage, the goal is not to damage your walls, but to test the surface integrity. If damage is present, it won’t take a lot of pressure to detect it.
When Should You Call for a Termite Inspection?
Termites are common in Tennessee. If you fail to take action, it’s only a matter of time before they end up in your house. When should you call for a termite inspection?
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If you notice any of the signs discussed above.
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If you have a history of leaks, foundation damage, or older wood in your house.
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If you’re planning to renovate or sell your house.
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If you haven’t had an inspection in over a year.
Termite inspections should be a routine, proactive part of your home maintenance routine. By having regular, annual inspections, you can protect your house from termites before they invade. If termite activity is detected, it can be taken care of quickly, before the infestation can grow and spread.
Contact All-American Pest Control for All Your Termite Control Needs
Contact All-American Pest Control for a professional termite inspection. Now is the perfect time to get an inspection, before swarm season starts and new colonies form. Remember: Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean that your house is safe from termites and the damage they cause. Protect your home from termites by calling All-American Pest Control today.
Your Trusted Nashville, TN Pest Control Experts in Nashville, TN & Nearby Neighborhoods
Since 1961, All-American Pest Control has been your go-to team of trusted pest experts for homes, businesses, and home builders throughout Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Our expert team offers termite treatments, mosquito reduction, rodent removal, ant and spider control, and wasp nest removal—keeping your property protected year-round. As a local, family-owned company, we take pride in offering reliable, professional pest solutions with outstanding customer service.
We proudly serve: Antioch, Oak Hill, Belle Meade, Berry Hill, Nashville, Old Hickory, Joelton, Madison, Green Hills Estates, Haynes, Kemper Heights, Metro Center, Northwest Nashville, Rivergate, Talbot's Corner, Bakers, Bellshire Estates, Blair Heights, Bordeaux, Cane Ridge, Germantown, and the entire Davidson County and Greater Nashville areas.
For trusted pest control in Nashville, TN, and these surrounding communities, contact All-American Pest Control today! Call (615) 824-8814 or Schedule a Free Consultation online.