Common Signs of Termites
- Mud tubes on foundation walls, piers or crawl spaces
- Discarded wings near windows, doors or light fixtures
- Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
- Bubbling or peeling paint and sagging floors
- Small piles of pellet-like droppings (from drywood termites)
Potential Risks and Damage
- Termites can weaken wooden framing, floors and support beams
- Damage is often hidden until it is extensive
- Repairs can be costly, and termite damage is often not covered by homeowners insurance
- Infestations can affect a home's sale or inspection
When to Get Professional Help
- You see mud tubes or swarming insects indoors
- You find discarded wings or damaged wood
- You're buying or selling a home and need an inspection
- It's been several years since your last termite inspection
What to Expect When You Contact a Provider
- A thorough inspection of the foundation, crawl space, attic and wood structures
- Identification of the termite type, which affects treatment
- Treatment options such as liquid barriers, bait systems or localized treatments
- Information on monitoring or follow-up inspections
Prevention Tips
- Keep mulch and soil from touching wood siding
- Fix leaks and direct gutters away from the foundation
- Store firewood away from the house and off the ground
- Reduce moisture in crawl spaces with ventilation
- Schedule periodic professional inspections
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between termites and flying ants?
Termite swarmers have straight antennae, a thick waist and wings of equal length. Flying ants have bent antennae, a pinched waist and uneven wings.
Can I treat termites myself?
Termite colonies are often underground or inside walls, so effective treatment usually requires professional equipment and products.
Does PestXpertz inspect for termites?
No. PestXpertz connects you with independent providers who perform inspections and treatments.
Other Pest Control Services
PestXpertz is a free service that helps connect homeowners with independent, third-party pest control service providers, subject to availability. We do not perform pest control services ourselves and are not affiliated with the service providers. All services are provided by independently owned and operated businesses.