Houston We Have a Problem: How to Spot Termites Before They Cause Major Damage

When was the last time you walked around your home and really looked at it?  With our heat, most of us don’t even mow our own lawn…. much less spend time outside looking at our homes.  But there are two types of homes in Houston, those that have termites and those that are going to get termites.  It’s time to get outside and do some inspecting.

1. Subterranean Termites

These termites live in the soil and build mud tubes to travel back and forth to your home without drying out.

Big Things to Look Out For:

·       Mud Tubes on your foundation or walls.  These thin tunnels made of soil, saliva and feces are the first early warning sign.

·       Dirt, mulch, grass, or landscaping touching the siding or covering weep holes (you should see at least 1 inch of exposed slab all the way around the home).

·       Trees, shrubs, or branches touching the roof, siding, or walls.  Termites use these as runways into your home.

·       Hollow sounding wood when you tap baseboards, door frames or support beams (termites eat wood from the inside out).

2. Drywood & Formosan Termites

These termites don’t need soil contact and can infest dry wood inside walls, attics or furniture.  Formosan are especially aggressive in the Houston area and can cause serious structural damage fast.

Warning Signs Include:

·       Small Pinpoint holes in wood surfaces.

·       Frass (termite droppings), that look like tiny sawdust, pellets or coffee grounds often in neat piles under damaged wood.

·       Soft, damaged or “bubbly” walls or ceilings that often feel spongy when pressed.

·       Discarded wings near windows, doors, or light fixtures after a swarm.

·       Blistered or peeling paint, stuck doors or windows, or sagging floors.

3. Simple Prevention Steps Every Houston Homeowner Should Take

 ·       Keep trees, shrubs, and vines trimmed away from the house.

·       Fix leaky faucets, poor drainage and standing water around the foundation because termites love water.

·       Store firewood and lumber far from the house.

·       Consider annual termite inspections and preventative baiting or treatments from a professional

4. What to Do If You Spot Trouble

Don’t wait.  Termite damage isn’t covered by homeowners’ insurance and repairs can run thousands of dollars.  Call us for an inspection and peace of mind.  281-610-8682