Termites are present in two types, those who live underground and burrow and those who live only on wood to survive. They live in and eat the wood used to create homes and other buildings and can cause thousands of dollars in damages before they are discovered. Therefore, when a termite infestation is present, there will be signs that they are present and alert you to the need for extermination.
Signs of Termite Infestation:
The most obvious signs of an infestation of termites are the mounds that they leave. These are left after they chew and consume the wound and may be found around the home or around where they live. As they chew their way through the wood, it becomes hollow, and the shavings that are dropped and their own excrement will create the termite mounds and leave behind wood that sounds hollow when tapped on. Wood that has been infested will change in appearance as well as sound, and may appear to be hollow, may be cracking, or show signs of sagging and beginning to cave in.
The wood may begin to crumble and fall apart as it is no longer stable, as well it can begin to shift as the pressure remains the same even as the wood is weakened and thinned or hallowed out. This may show in the building beginning to show signs of sagging, including floors and stairs. Ceilings may begin to sag as the wood can no longer hold the weight. As the wood is weakened and shifting, you may find that walls or floors form cracks.
Doorways & Window Frames:
This can also affect doorways and window frames. As they begin to crack and sag, the wear will show on the surface of the wood. The wood in the wall is easily visible. Their tubes can be seen from where they have left a path behind them. As they chew through the wood, it leaves tunnels where they have eaten the wood, which is easily visible in the wood, including any crumbling around them. There may also be a trail left of mud or red clay where they have traveled and left a trail.
Along with these, you may find groups of the termites themselves or areas or piles of wings that they have discarded. Suppose any of these signs are present in the home or around a wooden building. In that case, it is important to have the concerns addressed as soon as possible to limit the damages to the building before it is unrepairable.
What to do Next:
When a termite infestation is suspected, it is important to address it immediately by having a professional come into the home and inspect if they are indeed present and how far the infestation has gotten. Start by seeking out someone that specializes in pest control in your local area. They will be able to assess the situation and guide you on the next steps. A small termite control concern may be resolved quickly with the correct tools. At the same time, a more significant infestation may require tenting the home, so the earlier the intervention, the faster and easier it can be resolved.
Types of Termites
| Type | Where they live | Key sign |
|---|---|---|
| Subterranean | In soil, travel through mud tubes | Mud tubes on walls and foundations |
| Drywood | Inside dry wood, no soil contact | Small piles of droppings like sawdust |
| Dampwood | In damp or rotting wood | Damage in wet wood near leaks |
Subterranean termites are the most common and the most damaging in the United States. They live in the soil and build mud tubes to reach wood. Drywood termites live inside the wood itself and do not need soil. Knowing the type helps a professional choose the right treatment.
How to Prevent a Termite Infestation
Keep wood away from soil. Do not stack firewood against your house. Fix leaks fast, as termites like damp wood. Keep gutters clean so water flows away from the foundation. Seal cracks in the foundation and around pipes. Trim trees and shrubs so they do not touch the house. A yearly termite inspection is the best way to catch a problem early.
Termite Treatment Options
A professional can treat termites in several ways. Liquid treatments create a barrier in the soil around the home. Bait systems use small stations that termites carry back to the colony. Wood treatments protect the wood itself. In some cases, the whole home is tented and fumigated. The right treatment depends on the termite type and how far the infestation has spread. Ask your pest control company to explain each option and its cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of a termite infestation?
The most obvious signs are the mounds they leave, hollow-sounding wood, sagging floors, mud tubes on walls, and piles of discarded wings.
What types of termites are there?
Termites are present in two types: those who live underground and burrow, and those who live only on wood to survive. Subterranean termites live in soil, while drywood termites live inside dry wood.
How can I prevent termites?
Keep wood away from soil, fix leaks fast, keep gutters clean, seal foundation cracks, and get a yearly termite inspection.
What should I do if I suspect termites?
Have a professional come into the home and inspect if they are indeed present and how far the infestation has gotten. Do not wait, as termites cause thousands of dollars in damage before they are found.
What termite treatments are available?
Common options are liquid soil treatments, bait systems, wood treatments, and whole-home fumigation. A professional can advise which fits your case.
Disclaimer: This guide gives general information only. Termite treatment needs a licensed professional. Contact a pest control company in your area for an inspection.
How Often to Inspect for Termites
Have your home inspected once a year, even if you see no signs of termites. In warm, humid areas, inspections may be needed more often. Spring is a good time to inspect, as swarming termites are most active then. Keep a record of each inspection, including the date and the findings. Early detection is the best way to limit damage and keep repair costs low.
Last Updated: 6 November 2026