Termites are quiet. Most homeowners don't know they have them until the damage is already done. The good news: there are early warning signs you can check for yourself in about 10 minutes.
1. Mud tubes on your foundation
Subterranean termites, the most common kind in East Tennessee, build pencil-sized mud tubes up foundation walls. Walk around your house and look along the bottom of the walls, especially in the crawl space.
2. Wings by windows and doors
In spring, swarming termites shed their wings. A small pile of tiny, see-through wings near a window sill is a big clue.
3. Wood that sounds hollow
Tap baseboards and door frames with a screwdriver handle. Wood that sounds hollow or feels soft may have termite damage inside.
4. Sticking doors and windows
Termite damage can make wood swell and warp, so doors and windows suddenly get hard to open.
5. Bubbling paint
Paint that bubbles or peels can mean moisture, and termites love moisture. It's worth a closer look.
What to do next
- Don't spray store-bought products. That can scatter the colony.
- Take a photo of what you found.
- Call or text us for a free termite inspection.
We'll tell you honestly if you have termites, and if you don't, we'll tell you that too.
