Common Signs of Termite Infestations in DFW, Texas

Living in Texas has many unique challenges, and termites are one of the most common pest issues. Termites are among the most troublesome and costly pests to invade any home. Unfortunately, they’re quite common in Texas, especially around major cities like Dallas-Fort Worth, the fifth-largest city in Texas.

If left untreated, termite infestations can be very destructive and cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars to repair. In this blog post, we’ll look at some common signs associated with termite activity, so you can see if your home may need special attention. We’ll also cover how to identify different types of termite colonies and what steps one should take once one knows they have an infestation.

Termites can be a nuisance and costly problem to have in your home. They are small in size and typically live on dead plants, but when termites find their way inside a building, they can wreak havoc on its structure. Knowing the signs of termite infestation is important in recognizing termite activity early and preventing serious structural damage. Common signs of termite infestation include:

Winged Termites

Winged termites, also known as swarmers or alates, are usually the first sign of an infestation. These dark-colored bugs with two pairs of wings often fly around windows and doors in early spring, looking to start new colonies.

Mud Tubes

Mud tubes are often the most visible sign of termite activity. These tubes are typically made from wood, dirt, and other debris and can be seen around the foundation or walls of your home. They help protect the termites from predators as they search for food.

Discarded Wings

After swarms have found a new place to settle, they shed their wings to start a new colony. So if you notice piles of wings near the windows or doors, termites may have already begun to nest in your home.

Hollow Wood

Termites like to feed on wood, so if you notice any hollow spots in the walls or furniture, it could be due to a termite infestation.

Noise

What do termite noise sounds like? Termites are known for making a faint clicking noise when they eat something, so if you hear any strange noises from the walls or furniture, it could indicate termites.

Identifying Different Termites Colonies in Dallas Fort Worth

Dallas, Fort Worth, is home to numerous termite colonies. Each species of termite can have different habits and behaviors so it’s important to identify which type you’re dealing with before attempting to remove them. Some of the most common types of termites in Dallas-Fort Worth include:

Formosan Subterranean Termites

Formosan termites are some of the most notorious pests. Their colonies often reach extremely large sizes, making them particularly powerful when it comes to property damage - they can completely devour buildings faster than any other species.

Subterranean termite colonies are typically found several feet below the surface in underground tunnels and nests, creating complex networks of interconnected tunnels and galleries that allow the termites to maintain a consistent environment for their nesting. These termite colonies can become quite large over time, sometimes growing to span up to hundreds of yards. This intricate network of tunnels provides termites with an ample supply of food, protection from predators, and a comfortable range of temperatures as they tunnel both above and below ground.

Drywood Termites

These termites don't require contact with soil and can live in nearly any type of structure, including furniture or attics. They prefer dry wood, such as window frames, floorboards, and walls. They can cause significant damage as they slowly eat away at the structure of your home.

Drywood termite colonies are significantly smaller than their underground counterparts, often consisting of hundreds to thousands of members. So while it may take a long time for the colony to produce swarmers – winged creatures that go on to become kings and queens in new colonies – these small groups can still have an enormous impact.

How To Prevent Termites?

Consistent property maintenance is the best way to prevent and control termite infestations. In addition, it is best to call a professional pest control in Dallas, Fort Worth, to inspect and treat your home, as they can detect early signs of termite activity.

To prevent termites from taking hold in the first place, you’ll need to make sure your property is well-maintained and structurally sound. Here are some tips on how to do this:

Maintain a Dry Home

Ensure to keep your home dry, as moisture is a major attractant for termites. Check windows, doors, and other outdoor areas for water buildup or leaks. Repair any plumbing issues to avoid standing water around your home.

Caulk Cracks

Inspect your home regularly for cracks where termites can enter, then seal them off with caulk or other materials.

Store Firewood Away

Termites love to feed on wood, so store any firewood at least 20 feet away from your home.

Trim Trees and Bushes

Keeping vegetation around your property trimmed will also help reduce the chances of termite infestations. These prevention methods can go a long way in reducing your risk of termite damage.