Look for Signs You Might Have Termites
Termites can cause aesthetic and structural damage to a home. When you discover an infestation early on, you’ll save money and prevent further damage to your property. Look for these signs of termites in the home.
1. Bubbling Paint
There are many reasons paint may crack or bubble, but most often it’s due to moisture. Paint might also be flaking if there’s internal damage behind the drywall. Check the baseboards, walls, and ceiling for signs of bubbling paint. This can be one of the signs of termites in the home.
2. Wings Indicate Termites in the Home
If you find piles of insect wings around your home, this is a sign you have termites. When termites swarm, they settle into a new location and discard their no-longer-needed wings. If you see discarded wings, contact a termite professional for an inspection of your property.
3. Termites in the Home Build Mud Tunnels
Another sign of termites in the home is mud tunnels or mud tubes. These tube-like structures protect and shelter termites as they explore the area. Mud tubes can often be spotted in piles of firewood, on trees, near the foundation of your home, or in other places around your property.
4. Hollow Wood
If you discover areas of hollow wood around your home, take time to investigate further. You might notice damage to your deck, the wooden front porch, or the stair railings. Termites eat wood from the inside, so hollowed out areas are a warning sign.
Watch Out for Termites
If you notice any of these things, especially if you observe multiple signs, call a professional as soon as possible. Termites can cause a lot of damage in a short period of time, so you’ll want to take steps to get rid of them immediately.
True North Home Inspections offers termite inspections with their regular home inspection services. If you are buying or selling a home in the Greater Seattle area, contact us to request an appointment.