Signs of Termite Infestation

The majority of real estate purchase contracts are contingent upon a termite inspection. Many people are often surprised if the termite inspection comes back showing termite infestation. The U.S. Forest Service reports that subterranean termites (common to Arkansas and Oklahoma) are the most destructive insect pests of wood in the United States causing more than $2 billion in damage each year. That is more than the damage caused by fire and windstorms combined! As you can see from the map provided by the Forestry Service Arkansas and Oklahoma range from Region 1 Very Heavy to Region II Moderate to Heavy. Whether you are selling your home or not, there are signs, you can look for to avoid any surprises and stop further damage if you do have termites. Termite damage to wood is often unnoticeable on the surface.

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First, let’s look at what constitutes a prime termite condition. Subterranean termites require high moisture. Warm soil containing a large supply of food created underneath buildings with inadequate water drainage, or poor ventilation, or where scraps of lumber, form boards, grade stakes, stump or roots are left in the soil.

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Avoid storing wood, stumps, etcetera around your home.

Signs of termite infestation:

  • When termites are in colonies, they can number in the tens, hundreds, or thousands. This large number can create a clicking sound.
  • If you notice flying termites around your home, most likely you have a termite infestation. See our past blog about termite swarmers.
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  • If you tap on a tree or piece of wood and it sounds hollow, you probably have a termite problem.
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  • Termites must protect themselves from the drying effects of the air. They do this by making earthen ¼ to ½ inch wide shelter tubes over the surface of foundation walls.
  • Frass (termite poo) is pushed out of the holes of the tunnels leaving black powdery marks. Also, the wings shed by termite swarmers are often a giveaway that you have unwanted houseguests.

It is always a good idea to have a termite inspection/treatment once a year. Call The Terminator today to schedule an appointment at 479.783.6200.