Termites may be small, but their impact can be devastating. A large colony can consume more than 100 pounds of wood in a single year, silently tunneling through beams, flooring, and framing. Because they feed from the inside out, significant structural damage can occur long before you notice a problem.
Unlike sudden events such as lightning strikes or flooding, termite damage is typically not covered by homeowners insurance. That means repair costs — which can easily reach thousands of dollars — often fall entirely on the homeowner.
Effective termite control starts with early detection and a clear plan to eliminate the infestation and prevent future attacks.
Signs of Termite Infestation in Your Home
Termite activity can remain hidden for months or even years. Knowing what to look for can help you catch a problem before it becomes severe.
1. Discarded Wings from Swarmers
Swarming termites leave their colony to reproduce and establish new colonies. After they find a suitable location, they shed their wings. If you notice small piles of wings on windowsills, near doors, or on your porch, it could indicate that termites are attempting to move in.
2. Mud Tubes Along Surfaces
Subterranean termites build pencil-sized mud tubes along foundations, walls, or crawl spaces. These tubes provide moisture and protection as termites travel between their underground nest and your home. Active mud tubes are a strong sign of ongoing structural damage.
3. Drywood Termite Droppings
Drywood termites leave behind small, pellet-like droppings (also called frass) that resemble tiny grains of sand or sawdust. If you find small piles of these near wooden structures, termites may already be feeding inside.
4. Damaged or Hollow Wood
Because termites eat wood from the inside out, affected wood may sound hollow when tapped. You may also notice blistering paint, warped wood, or small holes in wooden surfaces.
What to Do If You Discover Termites
Termite damage happens gradually, so taking swift, informed action is critical once you confirm their presence.
Avoid DIY Treatments
While store-bought products may seem convenient, termite infestations are rarely simple. Identifying the termite species, locating the colony, and assessing structural damage requires experience. In most cases, professional treatment is strongly recommended.
Call a Professional Termite Control Service
Professional pest control technicians can properly assess the infestation and apply effective treatments.
At Avista Pest Control, we use advanced liquid treatment methods tailored to the severity and type of infestation. Because subterranean termites often nest away from the home, technicians may trench around the structure and apply a non-repellent liquid treatment into the soil.
This treatment creates a protective barrier. Termites pass through it unknowingly, carrying it back to the colony — effectively eliminating the source of the infestation.
How to Prevent Termite Re-Infestation in Your Home
Even after successful treatment, prevention is key to protecting your investment.
Seal Entry Points
Inspect and seal cracks in foundations, gaps around utility lines, and other structural openings where termites could gain access.
Reduce Moisture Around the Home
Termites are attracted to moisture. Repair leaking pipes, improve drainage, clean gutters, and ensure proper ventilation in crawl spaces to keep your home as dry as possible.
Schedule Regular Inspections
Routine inspections are one of the most effective preventive measures. Early detection can save you from costly structural repairs.
Protect Your Home with Avista
Discovering termites in your home can be overwhelming — but you don’t have to handle it alone. Avista Pest Control provides thorough inspections, targeted treatments, and preventative solutions to keep your home protected.
If you suspect termite activity or want to schedule a preventive inspection, contact Avista today for a quote and take the first step toward safeguarding your home.