When it comes to pests, termite infestations are among the most stressful to handle. They can be much worse than other pest problems, such as bed bugs, cockroaches, or rodents, primarily because they can do so much damage. Often, by the time you see visible signs of a termite infestation, the damage is already fairly substantial. That’s why it is important to know the early wearing signs so that you can catch an infestation before your property is too damaged. It is even better if you can get termite treatment in Knoxville before the infestation happens as a preventative measure.

Let’s take a look at some of the signs that could indicate that you have a termite infestation.

What Is Considered a Termite Infestation?

Generally speaking, a termite infestation is when the termite population in your property has gotten out of control. However, since termites can multiply rapidly, even one termite is too many! Within weeks, you could be experiencing a full-blown infestation requiring immediate termite treatment in Knoxville.

Common Signs of Termite Infestations

Since termites can be such a destructive pest, it is important to know and recognize the common signs that might indicate a termite infestation in your home. Here are a few of the things you should be on the lookout for:

• Tunnels & Nests - Termites are prone to dehydration, so they protect themselves from the elements by building mud tubes to travel through without direct contact with the air. These tiny tunnels create consistent humid environments that are crucial for termites to survive. Mud tubes are also used for travel between the nest and potential food sources. You will usually notice mud tubes close to the ground, along the edge of your walls, or close to the foundation. This is a sure sign that you need termite treatment in Knoxville.
• Swarmers & Abandoned Wings - Some termites can fly during the swarming phase of their lifecycle. The winged termites will leave their colony in search of new locations to establish new termite colonies. Termites will swarm in the Spring and Early Summer, and you may see them swarming around doors and windows, looking for entry points into your home. That’s a great time to arrange pest control in Knoxville, as it means the colony is not yet established. After the swarming season, the termites will shed their wings. Finding discarded wings on windowsills or in crawl spaces strongly indicates that you have a termite infestation.
• Damaged Wooden Structures - If you suspect a termite infestation, you should be careful to inspect all of the wood in your home, from furniture and flooring to structural elements of your home. When left unchallenged, termites can cause devastating damage, costing thousands of dollars to repair. You should pay particular attention to joints and corners and any moist environments, such as the cabinets under sinks.
• Trails On Walls - Another sign that you may be in need of termite treatment in Knoxville is the presence of holes and tunnels in your plaster or wallpaper. Termites are champion tunnelers and can bore through wood, plaster, and other building materials to establish nests or access food sources. This will usually be noticeable as small irregular holes or channels. The holes may also be filled with soil or mud as they begin to construct the mud tubes we mentioned previously.
• Musty Smells - One of the signs of a termite infestation that might surprise you is the distinctive smell it creates! Some people may dismiss the odor as dirty laundry or a blocked drain, but if you smell a musty, moldy smell, it could be an indication of a termite nest. If the colony is large and active, the smell can become quite unbearable, making your living situation uncomfortable, so don’t dismiss these smells. Even if you are not sure it is termites, calling in termite treatment in Knoxville is a good idea. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

How to Prevent a Termite Infestation

Now that you know the signs to look out for, you may be wondering what you can do to avoid termites taking over in the first place! The easiest answer is to have regular termite treatment in Knoxville as a preventative measure to protect your property. However, there are some other tips you can follow to lower the risk of an infestation.

• Fix leaking pipes or faucets in a timely manner, as most pests, including termites, favor a moist environment
• Don’t store firewood against the house, it must be at least 20 feet away from your foundation
• Reduce the amount of contact between soil and wood, especially around your foundation

In conclusion, dealing with a termite infestation is no small matter. These destructive pests can cause extensive damage to your home if left unchecked, making it crucial to recognize the warning signs early and take swift action. From spotting mud tubes and discarded wings to noticing damaged wood and musty odors, being vigilant can save you from costly repairs and stress. Preventative measures, such as regular termite treatments in Knoxville and maintaining a dry, well-maintained property, are your best defense against these relentless invaders. Remember, when it comes to termites, early detection and prevention are key to protecting your home and peace of mind.

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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.