Drywall is a common building material used in homes and businesses. While it is generally reliable, some signs may indicate that you have termites. Termites can cause significant damage to your property, so early detection is key to preventing any severe damage. This blog post will go over some of the most common signs of termites in drywall, and what you can do about them.
Why are Termites Attracted to Drywall?
Termites are small, winged insects that feed on wood. They are attracted to drywall because it contains cellulose, a major wood component. Cellulose is termites’ main food source, and they will eat away at drywall to get to it. In addition, termites are attracted to moist and warm areas, and drywall often meets these conditions.
Drywall Signs of Termites
Termites are pesky little pests that can cause a lot of damage to your home. But, if you know the signs that termites leave behind, it will be much easier to catch them early and prevent serious damage. Here are some of the most common signs of termites in drywall:
Tiny Holes: Termites are tiny creatures that feast on drywall. They tend to create tiny holes where they can release their feces. These holes are typically very small and about the size of a pinprick.
Mud Tubes: To reach their food source, termites build mud tubes. These tubes are made of termite saliva and feces, providing a safe way for termites to travel from the ground to your drywall. Mud tubes are usually about the thickness of a pencil and can be found on walls, foundations, or other areas where there is wood.
Hollow Drywall: As termites eat away at the drywall, it will start to sound hollow when you tap on it. This is one of the telltale signs that you have termites and should be addressed immediately.
Discarded Wings: As termites mature, they shed their wings. These wings are typically found near doors, windows, or any other entry point to your home. If you see discarded wings, it's a good indication that you have an infestation.
Termite Frass: Frass is another name for termite droppings. It looks like sawdust and is typically found near areas where termites are active. If you see frass, it's a good sign that you have termites and should act immediately.
Head Banging: One of the more unusual signs of termites is head banging. This is when termites bang their heads against wood or drywall. This behavior usually happens when there is an infestation because the termites are trying to communicate with other members of their colony.
What to Do If You See These Signs
If you see any of these signs, taking action immediately is important. The longer you wait, the more damage termites will do to your home. You should call a professional pest control company to come and inspect your property. They will be able to confirm whether or not you have an infestation and develop a treatment plan accordingly.
However, there are some things that you can do to prevent termites from damaging your home in the first place. One of the best things you can do is to reduce moisture in and around your home. This includes fixing leaks, ensuring proper drainage, and reducing humidity levels. You should seal any cracks or openings in your foundation or exterior walls. These are all termite entry points and should be sealed to prevent them from getting inside.
These preventative measures will help keep termites away from your home and reduce the risk of damage. But again, if you see any of the signs mentioned above, it’s important to act immediately to prevent further damage.
Contact Forterra Pest Control If You Suspect Drywall Signs of Termites. Forterra Pest Control has been helping homeowners with termite problems for many years. We know the signs of termites and can help you get rid of them quickly and efficiently. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll inspect your home and develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Let us help you get rid of those pesky termites once and for all!