Identifying Signs Of Termite Activity Within Your Home

It is common to find termites with homes throughout the Gold Coast due to our suitable climate and environment. When termites first get into houses and other buildings there is often no indication that they are there but there are some warning signs you can look out for. That is why it is essential to have regular timber pest inspections of your property as the electronic instruments that we use can detect termite activity in walls etc. that would otherwise go unnoticed.

The advantage of regular inspections is that a termite attack can be detected early before significant damage is caused, however, once the termites are established there are often a number of signs that may indicate that termites are present. Following is a list of the things to watch out for, although this list is not comprehensive as there are variations that can be due to such factors as the species of termite involved, the size of the nest and the length of time that the termites have been there.

But certainly call All Care Pest Control or for that matter any licensed timber pest inspection company if you notice any of the following.

1. When termites enter houses and other buildings the damage to architraves around windows, door frames and skirting boards may go unnoticed as they are able to eat the timber from the inside often right through to the paint. Therefore the timber retains its shape although there may be some distortion. It is therefore a good idea for home owners to look around their homes tapping the timbers to check that there is no hollowness beneath paint or varnish.
2. Termites also need very high moisture levels in order to survive above the ground. For this reason they will bring soil/mud into wall cavities so that high moisture levels can be maintained but this frequently causes damp or musty odours. Nevertheless, this is not conclusive evidence that termites are present as water leaks from bathrooms etc. can also cause mould and odour.
3. The soil/mud is also used to produce tunnels that allow the termites extend their activities above the ground without being exposed to dry air. If you notice tunnels on the outside of brick walls, other building materials or even over plasterboard inside the house it may indicate termite presence. The tunnels can vary in width from about 8 millimetres but can also be as thick as your arm. Again, the presence of a tunnel made of soil is not conclusive evidence that termites are present as sometimes black ants can build them as well. A licensed timber pest Inspector would know the difference and so it would be important to arrange an inspection if you find tunnels made of soil or mud.
4. When wall framing timber has been severely damaged by termites it can cause distortion in the evenness of plasterboard walls. If you notice that plasterboard is bowing out or drawing in, you should arrange an inspection.
5. Outside in garden areas termites also cause hollowing of timber and produce mud tunnels. Although they may not be present inside your house, the activity outside would indicate that the risk of termite attack of the house itself is higher.
6. High moisture levels produced inside walls can cause electrical issues with light switches and power points and although this may not be due to termites there have been occasions when it has.
7. When termites damage framing timber in roofs it can cause sagging of roofing tiles. This is often visible when standing back from the house and if you notice this a licensed timber pest Inspector should be engaged to investigate.

All Care Pest Control are fully qualified in identifying, eradicating and controlling termites. If you would like more information on our termite inspections, we are more than happy to discuss any queries that you may have. Phone Steve on 0412 142 340.