Termites are silent destroyers, often causing significant damage before homeowners realise there’s a problem. In Australia, where climate conditions are ideal for termite activity, early detection is essential. Regular maintenance and professional checks can prevent thousands of dollars in structural damage and preserve property value. But how can one tell when it’s time to act?
Here are seven critical signs that indicate it’s time to book a termite inspection today.
1. Hollow-Sounding Timber
One of the most common and alarming signs of termite activity is timber that sounds hollow when tapped. Termites consume wood from the inside out, leaving behind a thin veneer of timber or paint.
This can give the illusion that the structure is sound, while serious internal damage continues unnoticed.
If walls, skirting boards or door frames sound hollow or feel papery, it’s a strong indication that termites may be active within. Ignoring this can lead to structural integrity issues, especially in supporting frames.
2. Tight-Fitting Doors or Windows
While it might seem like a humidity issue at first, difficulty opening or closing doors and windows can also be due to termite damage. As termites feed on wood, they produce moisture, which can cause timber to swell. This swelling can lead to frames warping slightly, creating a tight or misaligned fit.
If multiple doors or windows begin sticking around the same time, especially during dry weather, it may be wise to consult a professional for a termite inspection.
3. Visible Termite Mud Tubes
Termites build protective mud tubes to maintain humidity and shield themselves from predators while they travel between their nest and a food source. These pencil-sized tubes are typically found along brick foundations, concrete walls or interior walls.
Spotting these tubes, particularly around the base of the home or in crawlspaces, is a strong sign that termites are present and actively feeding. These tubes serve as both shelter and passageways, making their presence a clear warning signal.
4. Discarded Wings Near Windowsills
Flying termites or alates, are reproductive members of the colony. After mating flights, they shed their wings and look for new places to start a colony. Finding discarded wings on windowsills, under doors or in spider webs indoors could mean a new termite colony is establishing itself nearby.
Because alates are short-lived and only appear during certain seasons, their wings are a telltale sign of a recent swarm. Acting quickly after spotting these remnants is key to avoiding an infestation.
5. Clicking Sounds in Walls
Surprisingly, termites can be heard. Soldier termites bang their heads against tunnel walls or shake their bodies to signal danger to the colony, creating a faint clicking sound. Worker termites, on the other hand, are noisy eaters and with a quiet environment, their chewing may be detectable.
Unusual noises inside walls, especially at night when the house is quiet, should not be dismissed. A trained pest professional can verify the presence and extent of infestation with a termite inspection.
6. Sagging Floors or Ceilings
Termite-damaged timber loses its strength over time. As support structures degrade, it can cause floors to feel spongy, ceilings to sag or walls to bulge. In some cases, homeowners may notice tiles or flooring that becomes loose or uneven without an apparent cause.
While water damage is a more common cause of these symptoms, termite activity can mimic similar signs. If there’s no history of leaks, termite damage should be seriously considered as a potential issue.
7. Presence of Frass (Termite Droppings)
Drywood termites, more commonly found in northern parts of Australia, leave behind tiny, pellet-shaped droppings known as frass. These are often found in small piles beneath infested timber or around skirting boards and windowsills.
Frass resembles sawdust or coffee grounds and indicates active feeding. If any of these signs are spotted, it is essential to have a termite inspection carried out to determine the source and scale of the problem.
Why Immediate Action Matters
Termite infestations can remain undetected for months or even years, making them particularly destructive. By the time visible signs appear, significant damage may already have occurred. The cost of repairs for termite-related damage is often not covered by standard home insurance policies in Australia, making prevention all the more vital.
Scheduling a termite inspection at the first sign of trouble can help catch infestations early, when treatment is simpler and less costly. A qualified pest control specialist can assess the situation, identify areas of risk and provide guidance on prevention and treatment options.
Take Action Early to Protect Your Home from Termites
Termites are a real and constant threat to Australian homes. Recognising the warning signs and responding promptly can save homeowners from costly repairs and ongoing stress. If any of these seven indicators appear in or around a property, a professional termite inspection should be scheduled without delay.
A proactive approach is the best defence against one of nature’s most destructive pests.
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