Why Termite Are a Serious Problem
Most people know termites eat wood, but it’s easy to underestimate just how destructive they can be. In fact, termites cause over $5 billion in property damage in the U.S. annually, most of which isn’t covered by homeowners' insurance. That’s a lot of money lost to a pest you may never actually see.
The problem is, termites typically stay hidden. If they find their way into your home, they can quietly chew through wooden structures—including essential support beams—for months or even years without you knowing.
That’s why prevention is so important. Regular inspections and early intervention can stop termites before they cause serious damage.
Common Signs of Subterranean Termite Activity
Hollow-Sounding Wood
When termites tunnel through wood, they leave it hollow from the inside out. If you tap on a beam, floorboard, or other wooden surface and it sounds empty, it could be a sign of termite activity. Exposed wood (like in basements, attics, or crawlspaces) is easiest to check.
Swarmers & Discarded Wings
During termite swarm season (usually spring, after rain), reproductive termites fly out to find mates and start new colonies. If you find piles of tiny, transparent wings—especially near windows, doors, or lights—it’s a strong sign that termites are nearby.
Bubbling or Peeling Paint
Unexplained bubbling paint or wallpaper can happen when termites tunnel just beneath the surface, disturbing the layers behind your walls. If you see these signs but can’t blame a water leak, termites might be the culprit
Sticky Doors and Windows
If doors and windows suddenly become hard to open or close, it could be due to swelling caused by termite activity in the surrounding wood—not just the humidity.
Live Termites (Not Swarmers)
Spotting live termites, not swarmers, is one of the clearest yet least spotted signs of an infestation. As mentioned above, they are very good at avoiding detection because they remain hidden in the soil or work inside the wood. Property owners may uncover worker termites, which are pale and soft-bodied, during renovations or in areas prone to termite activity. If you see creamy white insects (often called white ants) with straight antennae and no obvious waist, it’s a strong indicator that a colony is nearby.
Less Obvious Signs to Watch For
Sometimes the warning signs are even subtler. Keep an eye (and ear) out for:
- Quiet clicking or rustling noises in the walls
- Sagging floors or ceilings
- Maze-like patterns in damaged wood
If you notice any of these, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional inspection—just to be safe.
got bugs? Termite Inspection & Control Services
At got bugs?, we believe prevention is the best way to protect your home from termites. Whether you’re seeing warning signs or just want peace of mind, we offer thorough inspections and effective termite treatment options to fit your needs.
Our experts will check your home for active termites and any conditions that could attract them. We’ll map out any problem areas and recommend a personalized plan to protect your home long-term.
We offer:
- Trelona® ATBS termite baiting, a non-invasive, family- and pet-safe option for continuous protection
- Termidor® liquid treatments, which eliminate active infestations quickly and effectively
With got bugs?, termite protection is simple, effective, and built to last.
What To Do If You Spot Signs Of Termites
If you’ve seen mud tubes, discarded wings, or hollow wood—or even if you're just not sure—it’s better to act fast. The sooner you call us, the sooner we can assess the situation and stop the damage in its tracks.
Contact got bugs? Today!
If there’s any sign that termites are creeping around your home, don’t wait. Call got bugs? today to schedule your termite inspection and take the first step toward protecting your home for good.
Even if you haven’t seen anything suspicious, setting up a proactive termite plan now can save you stress, damage, and money down the road.
