Identifying Termites — How to Spot the Signs 

With warm weather comes an increase in termite activity. Although these pests can be active year-round, termite activity tends to peak from spring through fall. Knowing what termites look like and how to spot the signs of a termite infestation is critical for property owners. The sooner you can spot a potential problem, the better you can prevent termite damage from devastating your home.  

Introduction to Termites 

Often nicknamed “silent destroyers” for their ability to wreak havoc unnoticed, termites cause an estimated $6.8 billion in property damage every year. What’s more, the National Pest Management Association notes that termite damage often isn’t covered by standard homeowners’ insurance policies.  

One of the easiest ways to identify termites is during swarming season, which usually occurs during spring. This is a phase in the termite lifecycle when winged termites emerge and reproduce to begin new colonies. Because you will see winged insects and shed wings, the visible evidence of termites is easy to detect at this time. This visual clue serves as a warning of a potential infestation. 

The Importance of Termite Identification 

Swarms are not the only way to spot termites. Understanding what termites look like and the signs they leave in the wake of their presence is the key to preventing widespread damage. The earlier you can spot signs of termites, the more likely you can catch the infestation before these pests can do significant harm to your property.  

Common Termite Species 

Approximately 2,000 different termite species exist worldwide. However, here in Upstate New York, Massachusetts, and the entire Northeast, only a few species account for most termite infestations.  

Subterranean Termites 

These are the most common termites found in the region. Subterranean termites also typically cause the most damage compared to other species. They remain underground, using distinct “mud tube” tunnels to travel between their nests and food sources. Colonies consist of three types: reproducers, (king, queen, and swarmers), workers, and soldiers. The queen is the largest in the colony. Swarmers have dark brown bodies and see-through wings. Workers are cream-colored with small jaws, and soldiers are also cream-colored, with flatter, wider bodies and rectangular heads. 

• Danger Level: Consume wood around the clock and create significant structural damage 
• Color: Varies from dark brown or black to cream colored 
• Size: Up to 1/8 inch long 

Drywood Termites 

These termites are thicker than other species, with straight antennae and wings that are equal in length. They thrive in dry hardwoods, including trees and structural limber. These termites can even eat their way through wooden items like furniture and picture frames. This type of termite is rare in the Northeast and are usually only found in furniture that was transported from southern regions. 

• Danger Level: Chew through anything containing cellulose and can be transported from location to location through infested items, including furniture 
• Color: Varies from light brown/tan to cream colored 
• Size: Up to 1 inch long 

Dampwood Termites 

These moisture-loving termites are larger, ranging from 1/2 to 5/8 inch in size. They prefer wood with ample moisture content, including fence posts, logs, and downed trees. Although they prefer high-moisture environments, they can also infest structures, including homes and other buildings. These termites build relatively small colonies consisting of a king and queen, soldiers, and nymphs. Soldiers have pincers and large heads. Dampwood termites are rare in the Northeast. 

• Danger Level: Can do damage to homes, working from the foundation to the rafters of the roof 
• Color: Varies from brown to cream colored 
• Size: 1/2 to 5/8 inch  

Physical Characteristics of Termites 

As you can see, termites range in color and size, depending on the species and whether they are a king, queen, worker, or soldier. Each species has a characteristic oval-shaped body that is long and narrow. Termites’ bodies are rectangular or oval in shape with a straight abdomen and two body segments. 

Differences from Ants 

Termites — particularly when they swarm — can often be mistaken for winged ants. Although the two share some physical traits, there are several ways you can tell them apart. 

	Ants	Termites
Antennae	Bent	Straight
Wings	Front wings longer than hind wings	Front and hind wings of equal length
Body Shape	Narrow, tapered waist	Rectangular bodies; no visible waist

Signs of Termites 

Termites can establish colonies and chew through a substantial amount of wood while remaining virtually undetected. However, when you know what to look for, you will be able to spot infestations sooner.  

Let’s take a closer look at the three primary signs of termites. 

Mud Tubes 

Mud tubes are the structures subterranean termites build to travel between their nests. These tunnels are typically pencil-sized and often found where the ground meets termites’ food source. That could be your house, shed, or another structure. 

Discarded Wings 

You might see swarmers, which are flying termites, in action when they leave to find their mates and go off to start their own colonies. But even if you miss the live version, you might find what they leave behind — discarded wings. Piles of wings near doors, windows, and access points are a clear sign of termite activity. 

Signs of Termite Damage 

You may not catch sight of wings or mud tubes, but you should keep an eye out for termite damage, which could appear in several ways. 

Hollow Sounds in Wood 

Termites can eat wooden structures from the inside out. Wood studs, beams, and other items can be left sounding hollow, which indicates internal structural damage. 

Blistered or Buckled Wood Surfaces 

If you notice your flooring looks like it has blisters or discoloration in areas, it could be due to termite damage. Buckling and a wavy-looking surface are other signs.  

Windows and Doors That Are Hard to Open and Close 

As termites eat their fill of cellulose, the damage they leave behind can warp wood. This can leave areas like door frames and window frames damaged, making it harder than usual to open and close the door or window. 

Types of Termite Damage 

Termite damage can be widespread and extensive. It typically falls into two categories: structural or aesthetic. Termites can also wreak havoc on furniture, further complicating matters.  

Structural vs. Aesthetic Damage 

Structural damage includes hollowed or compromised beams, sagging ceilings, warped or unsupportive floors, and wavy walls. This is the most expensive damage to repair and presents a potential safety hazard. 

Aesthetic termite damage, on the other hand, affects the look of your home more than its safety and function. For example, termites may have eaten through baseboards or window frames or caused warping to wooden furniture. 

How to Identify Termite Infestations 

To identify termite activity, a thorough inspection is needed. Homeowners and property owners can perform some measures on their own. However, if you suspect an infestation, getting a professional inspection is mission critical.  

Visual Inspection 

Walk the property inside and out, looking for mud tubes and other signs of termites. Tap wood that you suspect may be damaged with a screwdriver or flashlight to see if it sounds hollow.  

Professional Termite Inspection 

Professionals know exactly what to look for and where to look for evidence of termite damage and activity. Technicians will assess the extent of the infestation, which will help inform the treatment plan. 

Monitoring Devices 

These devices are ideal for use in tandem with routine inspections and treatment. Using multiple in-ground monitoring stations allows you to keep an eye on any residual activity and restore your peace of mind. 

What to Do If You Find Termites 

If you find termites or evidence of an infestation, don’t panic. The best thing you can do is call professionals to begin the process of professional termite control.  

DIY Termite Control 

There are various DIY solutions out there, including using natural products like neem oil and diatomaceous earth to try to eliminate infestations. However, termite colonies can be far larger than you might think. Getting to the heart of the problem can be challenging on your own.  

That said, property owners can practice preventive measures to help control termite activity. For example, to help create an environment less attractive to termites, you might try the following: 

• Store firewood far from the building 
• Trim shrubbery away from the foundation 
• Maintain gutters and downspouts to keep soil around foundations dry 
• Address leaks and moisture issues promptly 
• Schedule routine inspections to watch for termite activity 

When to Contact Professional Termite Control 

If you suspect your property has termites, don’t wait. Termites are rarely a DIY project, and the longer the problem goes unchecked, the more damage they can do.  

USX Pest was founded on the premise of providing exceptional service. Our highly trained, licensed technicians know how to spot the signs of termite activity. We can aid property owners with detailed inspections, monitoring, and state-of-the-art termite control services. Schedule a free inspection today to get started.