Termites are silent destroyers, causing billions of dollars in property damage each year—often before homeowners even realize there’s a problem. At Redi Pest Control LLC, we know how critical early detection is in preventing costly repairs. If you suspect termites are invading your home, here are the top 5 signs to look for—and the steps you should take next.

1. Hollow-Sounding or Damaged Wood

Termites consume wood from the inside out, leaving a thin outer layer while hollowing out the interior. If you knock on wood (like baseboards, door frames, or window sills) and it sounds hollow or feels brittle, termites may be at work.

What to do:

• Tap suspected wood with a screwdriver—if it crumbles easily, you likely have an infestation.
• Schedule a professional termite inspection immediately to assess the damage.

2. Mud Tubes on Walls or Foundations

Subterranean termites build pencil-sized mud tubes to travel between their nest and food sources (your home’s wood). These tubes are often found along foundations, crawl spaces, or exterior walls.

What to do:

• Don’t disturb the tubes—this can cause termites to retreat and make treatment harder.
• Call a pest control expert to inspect and eliminate the colony.

3. Discarded Wings Near Windows or Doors

During swarming season (usually spring), reproductive termites shed their wings after finding a new nesting site. If you find small, translucent wings near windowsills, doors, or light fixtures, it’s a strong sign of termite activity.

What to do:

• Vacuum up the wings but save a sample for pest identification.
• Contact a professional to determine if an active colony is nearby.

4. Frass (Termite Droppings)

Drywood termites push out their excrement, called frass, which resembles tiny wood-colored pellets or coffee grounds. You may find these near baseboards, attics, or wooden furniture.

What to do:

• Avoid cleaning frass immediately—it helps identify infestation points.
• Get a termite inspection to locate the nest and prevent further damage.

5. Stuck Doors or Warped Windows

Termites produce moisture as they eat, which can warp wood over time. If doors or windows suddenly become difficult to open or close, termites (or water damage) may be the culprit.

What to do:

• Check for other signs (mud tubes, frass, hollow wood).
• Don’t ignore it—structural damage worsens over time.

What to Do If You Suspect Termites

1. Don’t panic—but act fast. Termites won’t go away on their own.
2. Avoid DIY treatments. Store-bought sprays rarely reach hidden colonies.
3. Call a professional. At Redi Pest Control LLC, we provide thorough inspections and effective treatments to eliminate termites and protect your home.

Protect Your Home Before It’s Too Late

Early detection saves money and stress. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, contact Redi Pest Control LLC today for a free inspection and peace of mind.