Early Warning Signs of a Termite Infestation in DFW

Fort Worth is one of the most distinctive cities in Texas. It is full of Old-West-themed entertainment and shopping and is home to the celebrated Stockyards National Historic District. But unfortunately, due to its warm climate, Dallas-Fort Worth is a hotbed for termite activity. As a result, the termite swarming season might start earlier and stay longer in Texas than in other regions. And to prevent termite infestation, it’s crucial to keep an eye out for termite infestation signs in your home or business.

In addition, knowing what to look for can help you identify a problem before it becomes a more significant issue. As we all know, termites are one of the most destructive pests that can cost expensive structural damage to a home or property.

Here are early warning signs of a termite infestation in DFW.

Termite Swarmers (flying termites)

Termite swarmers, or alates, are the reproductive members of a termite colony. They have two pairs of large, pale wings, unlike other colony members such as workers or soldier termites. And because of their appearance, they are sometimes mistaken as flying ants.

Termite swarmers are the most obvious warning sign of a termite infestation. Termite swarms to look for new colonies. You can determine where the swarmers are coming from by noting where they are found (or any traces). For example, if termite swarmers are present in your home, a termite colony may be within or close to your home. However, if you notice swarmers outside your house, a colony is probably in your yard or nearby.

If you see these swarms, it’s important to immediately call a professional termite treatment company, as they are a sure sign of an infestation.

Mud Tubes

Another telltale sign that you may have a termite infestation is the presence of mud tubes. Subterranean termites build mud tubes to protect themselves from drying out, as subterranean termites need moisture to survive. It can also help them travel between their colonies and access their food source.

Mud tubes are made of a mixture of termite saliva, mud, dirt, and pieces of wood. You can find mud tubes, roughly the size of a quarter, on the interior and exterior walls leading up to the building’s access points.

Hollowed or Damaged Wood

If you have termites, you may notice that the wood in your home is showing signs of damage. Drywood termites eat wood from the inside out because of the cellulose present in this. When termites feed on the wood, the wood source will eventually become brittle, and the wood sounds hollow when you tap on it. Also, if you notice that there are small holes or that the wood is weakened, this could be a sign that you have an infestation.

Termite damage can occasionally resemble water damage. Signs of termite damage include buckling wood, which is why it is hard to open doors and windows. Termite infestation can also give off a mold or mildew smell. However, termites themselves are not the source of this odor. Instead, it originates from the wooden structures they invade. Termites are attracted to damp, moldy, or musty wood because it is the right environment for them.

Discarded Wings

Another early sign of termite infestation is the remnants of discarded wings on the floor or windowsills. Termite wings are the remains of reproductive termites after they’ve mated. While termite swarmers disappear quickly after mating, the disembodied wings are good signs of active termite infestation.

Noise in Your Walls

Termites might be heard if you pay great attention. You can hear a gentle clicking sound from inside your walls if you have a serious infestation. When drywood termites eat, worker termites make noise. You can put your ear close to the walls in your home and listen for any noises they create.

Drywood termite droppings (frass)

Drywood termites poop and their excrement is called pellets or frass. To dispose of their waste, termites drill tiny holes into wooden objects, which helps maintain their nesting area clean and unclogged.

Protecting Your Home from Termites

If you’ve noticed any early warning signs of a termite infestation in DFW, it’s time to take action. The best way to protect your home from termites is to contact a professional pest control company. They can provide a thorough termite inspection of your property and recommend the best course of action to ensure your home is protected from these wood-destroying insects.

In addition to calling a professional, you can also take steps to reduce the risk of an infestation. This includes:

Regularly inspecting your home for signs of termites.
Keeping your home’s foundation in good repair.
Ensuring there is no excess moisture around your home.

By being aware of the warning signs of a termite infestation in DFW, you can protect your home and prevent an infestation from becoming a bigger issue. If you notice any of these signs, don’t hesitate to take action and contact a professional immediately.

Termite Infestation in DFW

Termite infestations are a serious problem in Dallas-Fort Worth, and it’s important to be aware of the warning signs. For example, if you see flying termites, mud tubes, damaged wood, discarded wings, or hear strange noises in your walls, then these could all be signs of an infestation. The best way to protect your home from termites is to contact a professional pest control company and take steps to reduce the risks. By being aware of the warning signs and taking action quickly, you can help ensure your home remains safe from termite damage.