Signs of Termites

Termites are insects that live in large colonies, where the population can reach more than 1 million termites. A colony consists of several different termite “jobs”: workers, reproductives, soldiers and swarmers. In the spring, the winged reproductives leave the nest in swarms to try and create a new colony. The swarming usually lasts less than an hour and may not be seen, especially outside your house. The winged reproductives look like flying ants, which they are often mistaken for instead of recognized as termites.
You're more likely to discover you have a termite problem by finding the evidence of their damage rather than seeing the actual termites themselves. If you encounter any of these signs, there is a good chance termites are chewing on your home or office. And they chew 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Here are the signs to look for:

• Piles of small, delicate wings shed by reproductives
• Mud tubes for above-ground travel on foundations or walls
• Damaged or hollow-sounding walls
• Pinholes in drywall or wallpaper, often filled with mud
• Dead or live termites

Click below to Zoom

These are ideal termite conditions:

• Foundation cracks
• Mulch or soil grade above brick or siding
• Stacked firewood
• Wooden fence attached to house
• Mulch planters built onto homes
• Retaining walls

Common areas termites are found:

• Front porch – the most common area
• Garage interior
• Attached patios and concrete slabs
• Interior of walk-out basements
• Foundation exterior