What Does Termite Damage Look Like?

Termites damage wood. Any wood source that appears weakened or hollowed-out is a sign of termite damage in your property.

The damage caused by termites typically only begins to appear after a few years of activity. Seeing any of the following signs of termite damage may signal that you have an infestation:

Cracks on internal walls, ceiling beams, or rafters
Bubbled or sagging areas in the floor
Mud tubes on the exterior of the home
Weak or hollow-sounding floorboards or baseboards
Broken roof tiles
Stuck windows and doors

Where to Look for Termite Damage

Termites infest within structures, making it hard to notice their presence. However, a mature colony will cause damage that can be noticed after some time. Look for signs of termite damage in the following areas of your home:

Walls
Ceilings
Foam insulation
Slabs
Drywall
Flooring
Tiling
Windows

Damaged Wood From Termite Infestations

When termites feed on wood in their search for cellulose, the wood source will become brittle and hollow. Piles of wood or lumber kept outside will look like they’ve been completely carved and tunneled-through if there’s been a termite infestation. In some cases, wood shavings may appear, and wood will be left looking rather splintered. In long-term cases, wood structures can begin to look warped or bent. This is often confused for water damage. Wood damage is the number one sign of a serious termite problem in your Knoxville TN home.

What to Do When You Spot Termite Damage

If you think you’ve spotted termite damage, it’s time to call a termite exterminator. Because it takes a long time for termite damage to become noticeable, it’s important to have termite control services to prevent infestations. A professional can help pinpoint and stop termite damage from worsening.

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