10 Early Warning Signs of Termite Infestation Every Homeowner Should Know
Sep 24, 2025
Termites cause billions of dollars in property damage each year, often working silently behind walls and under floors until significant structural damage has already occurred. As a homeowner, recognizing the early warning signs of termite activity can save you thousands in repair costs and protect your most valuable investment.
Why Early Detection Matters
Termites are often called “silent destroyers” because they can cause extensive damage before being detected. A typical termite colony can consume wood 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for years before homeowners notice any problems. By the time visible damage appears, the infestation has likely been active for months or even years.
10 Critical Warning Signs to Watch For
1. Mud Tubes Along Foundation Walls
Subterranean termites build pencil-thin mud tubes to travel between their underground colonies and food sources. These tubes are typically found along foundation walls, in crawl spaces, or near water sources. If you see these brown, dirt-like tunnels, contact a professional immediately.
2. Discarded Wings Near Windows and Doors
During swarming season (typically spring), reproductive termites shed their wings after finding a mate. Piles of discarded wings near windows, doors, or light sources often indicate a new colony is being established nearby.
3. Hollow-Sounding Wood
Tap wooden beams, door frames, and floorboards with a screwdriver handle. Healthy wood produces a solid sound, while termite-damaged wood sounds hollow or papery. This occurs because termites eat wood from the inside out, leaving only a thin outer shell.
4. Small Holes in Drywall
Tiny, round holes in drywall or wooden surfaces may indicate drywood termite activity. These “kickout holes” are created when termites push their waste pellets (frass) out of their tunnels.
5. Sagging or Squeaky Floors
When termites damage floor joists and subflooring, you may notice floors that sag, feel spongy, or squeak when walked on. This structural damage requires immediate professional attention.
6. Tight-Fitting Doors and Windows
Termite damage and the moisture they produce can cause wooden door and window frames to warp, making them difficult to open or close properly.
7. Small Piles of Sawdust-Like Material
Drywood termites create small piles of pellet-shaped droppings called frass. These pellets are typically tan, brown, or black and may accumulate near infested wood.
8. Bubbling or Peeling Paint
Moisture from termite activity can cause paint to bubble, crack, or peel, especially on wooden surfaces near the foundation or in basements.
9. Live Insects or Swarmers
Seeing live termites, especially winged swarmers inside your home, is a clear indication of an active infestation. Swarmers are often mistaken for flying ants, but termites have straight antennae and equal-length wings.
10. Unexplained Cracks in Walls or Ceilings
As termites compromise structural integrity, small cracks may appear in walls or ceilings. While not all cracks indicate termites, unexplained structural changes should be investigated.
