Termites are incredibly destructive pests, and they are considered the number-one cause of damage to wood walls and home structures in general. If your home has been invaded by termites, it is important that you act immediately to minimize the damage to your floors, walls, ceilings, and the wooden structural framework of your house.  

Because you will not know the extent of the termite invasion or the potential damage, you will need to enlist the help of a termite control company. To know whether you need a professional, you will want to look for signs of termite infestation. Here are five indications that you have a termite problem in your home.  

Hollow-Sounding Wood 

When termites start to eat wood, they will leave grain behind. As a result, hollow chambers within the wood will be produced, along with tunnels that connect them. These can easily be detected by tapping on the wall and then listening for a hollow sound to come from within the wall. 

Mud Tubes 

Termites need an environment of moist soil to thrive, though they require wood in order to survive since that is their main source of food. These pests solve this particular problem by using moist mud to build long tubes, which can often be seen going up the foundation wall and into a crack that will lead into your house where their food is located. If you notice a tube, open the tube to verify that there are indeed termites present.  

Swarmers 

In some cases, you may notice groups of winged termites that are in the process of swarming. During specific times of the year, these termites will fly in groups of tens, hundreds, or even thousands in an effort to establish brand-new colonies. These swarms can occur outdoors or indoors. 

Discarded Wings 

Once these swarms of termites find a new location to form a new colony, they will discard their wings and generally disappear. If you notice discarded wings around the window sills, floors, or foundation, it is a sign that a new colony is being formed by termites. To prevent a colony from becoming well established, contact a termite control company immediately. 

Cracks on Wood Surfaces 

If you notice cracks on wood ceilings or walls and no explanation for them, it may be an indication that termites are present. Another sign of the presence of termites is a spongy or springy floor. 

If you notice any of the aforementioned signs, it is important to get in touch with a termite control company in your area immediately to handle the problem.