One of the worst things about termites is that they could be living on your property, even inside your house, for quite some time before they are discovered. However, to get the most benefit from termite treatment in Knoxville and minimize the damage to your property, you need to take action as early as possible. With that in mind, let’s talk about some of the signs that could indicate you have a termite infestation.

Buckling and/or Blistering of Wood Flooring

If you have started to notice that the wood flooring in your home is buckling, or has blisters, then it can be an indication that termites are feasting on the underside of the floor. Termites prefer the softer wood of the subfloor and supports over the hardwood finish, so you may only notice something once substantial damage has already been done. However, when you do notice, arranging termite treatment in Knoxville as soon as possible is important.

Hollowed or Otherwise Damaged Wood

It is very common to find termite damage behind or below surfaces such as floors and walls. It can be tricky to spot damage early on in a termite infestation since the termites will eat from the inside out. They can get inside the studs of the walls and hollow them out without ever emerging to be seen. Tapping on the wood will give an empty, hollow sound indicating potential termite damage. Since termites chew through wood to obtain cellulose, they will leave behind long grooves that some describe as looking like a maze or a honeycomb. The larger these grooves get, the weaker the wood becomes, often resulting in structural damage. If you find this type of damage in your home, seek out termite treatment in Knoxville immediately.

Seeing Swarmers Around the Property

Flying termites known as Swarmers will break away from their colonies in search of mates and to establish new colonies. A swarm may be made up of hundreds or even thousands of termites. If you see a swarm on or near your property, there is likely one or more established colonies nearby, and you should probably seek termite treatment in Knoxville to protect your home. If you see piles of discarded wings near windows, doors, or other potential access points, termites are likely attempting to establish a colony in your home. When swarming termites land, they will intentionally twist off their wings.

Windows or Doors Are Sticking

Termite damage can cause wood to buckle or warp. If the pests have been eating your window frames or doors, you may start to notice that they are more difficult to open or close. This is because of the warping of the wood and is an early indicator that you will need termite treatment in Knoxville.

Mud Tubes

One of the best indicators that you have a termite infestation is discovering mud tubes around your property. You may spot them anywhere that the ground meets your home or any other wood source. They are about the width of a pencil and are used to allow subterranean termites to travel between their underground nest and their food source. As soon as you spot mud tubes, get on the phone to arrange termite treatment in Knoxville. You can try breaking off a piece of the mud tube to check for live termites inside them. If you do not find any, it is a good idea to wait and check again in a few days to see if the broken tube has been repaired.

Moldy Scents

Termites preferred source of food is wood in a high-moisture environment. This means that a moldy scent often accompanies their presence. If you smell mold but cannot find a source for the aroma, then termites could be the culprit, and you will need a visit from professional termite treatment in Knoxville.

Damage to Paint or Wallpaper

If termites are feeding on cardboard or wood paneling, they will leave tiny exit holes. In many cases, they can do this without causing any damage to the paint or wallpaper, so it may go unnoticed until you decide to strip the walls. However, if you look closely, you may see evidence of this damage. In addition to the small pin holes, you should also look out for bubbling paint, discolored wallpaper, buckled wood paneling, and sunken areas on the wall. If you do notice any of the signs, booking termite treatment in Knoxville might be worthwhile.

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Otis Termite & Pest Control is a full-service pest control company with a focus on outstanding service. We have been serving the East Tennessee area for over 56 years and our reputation is built on prompt and effective service. We’re good at what we do and we’re fast. We do the job right the first time – and that’s an actual guarantee! 

Call 865.690.1662 or visit www.otispestcontrol.net.