Every year, termites cause around $5 billion worth of property damage. In most cases, this damage is not covered by homeowner insurance, leaving many to pay for repairs out of pocket. This averages between $3000 to $8000, although it can be much higher for the most severe infestations. That is why it is so important to arrange for termite treatment in Knoxville as soon as you have concerns that you could be dealing with termites in your home.

Let’s take a look at the top 6 signs that your home could be infested with termites!

1 - Flying Termites aka Swarmers

One of the first signs that you need termite treatment in Knoxville is seeing flying termites, also known as swarmers. You may see the swarmers gather outside your property, or you may have noticed piles of their discarded wings. Swarmers will leave the nest in search of a mate or to establish a new colony, so seeing them indicates that you could be in the early stages of an infestation. If you arrange termite treatment in Knoxville quickly, you can nip it in the bud early before any significant structural damage is done. Like many pests, they tend to swarm at night and are drawn to light. After finding a new place to establish a colony, the wings are discarded, and you may find them scattered around your home’s foundation.

2 - Hollow or Blistering Wood

Termites will primarily feast on wood, although they will eat anything that contains cellulose, including paper, cardboard, drywall, insulation, and plant matter. When they eat wood, they start on the inside and work their way out. Over time, this leaves just the exterior veneer; tapping on the wood will sound hollow inside. It can also cause cracks and blisters on the surface. This is especially common on walls and laminate flooring. If you notice hollow spots or unexplained cracks and blisters, it is a good idea to consider termite treatment in Knoxville, as you may be dealing with a termite infestation.

3 - Finding Frass

One of the tell-tale signs of a termite infestation is the presence of frass in your home. Frass is the scientific term for termite droppings! It is wood colored and has the appearance of sawdust to the untrained eye. However, this is one of the big things your termite technician is going to be looking for when carrying out the initial inspection for termite treatment in Knoxville.

4 - Mud Tubes

Another one of the most recognizable signs of termites is the presence of mud tubes. These are essentially highways to help termites travel from the ground to a potential food source. You will often see them starting at the foundation and moving upwards. These are highly recognizable and easy to spot with the naked eye. Mud tubes are typically the width of a standard pencil. They are narrow and cylindrical and are usually light to dark brown, depending on the material being used to build them. The primary purpose of these mud tubes is to protect termites from predators and dehydration while they travel in search of wood to feed on. If you notice mud tubes forming around your home, it warrants an immediate call for termite treatment in Knoxville.

5 - Windows & Doors Starting to Stick

When your windows and doors seem to be a little too tight and are difficult to open and close, your immediate thought is likely that too much moisture is causing the wood to swell. However, it can also be an indication of a termite infestation. If termites are feasting on your door or window frames, moisture is left behind, which can cause the wood to warp, making it prone to sticking. If you notice this issue, consider looking into termite treatment in Knoxville in case you do have a termite problem.

6 - Termite Holes

Another warning sign that you have termites is finding termite holes. These are tiny round holes that appear in the wood. They are left behind when termites exit the nest to swarm. Termite holes are about ⅛ of an inch across. Once the swarmers have left the nest, nymphs will use frass as a paste to fill the holes, so it is unusual to see uncovered holes for so long. If you notice them it is important to contact a professional pest control company for termite treatment in Knoxville.

Termites are a serious threat to homes, causing extensive damage that can be expensive to repair. You can take swift action by staying vigilant and recognizing the early warning signs—such as swarmers, hollow wood, frass, mud tubes, sticky doors and windows, and termite holes—before the infestation worsens. If you suspect termites in your home, don’t wait. Arranging for professional termite treatment in Knoxville as soon as possible can help protect your property and prevent costly structural damage. Stay proactive, and keep your home termite-free!

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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.