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How To Spot Termites And When It's Time To Call In A Pro

Termites are often called "silent destroyers" for a reason. They can chew through wood, flooring, and even wallpaper without being noticed for months. Because they can be extremely difficult pests to spot, inspections can help detect them early and prevent a lot of damage further down the line. However, there are several signs you can look for, and we've outlined the most common ones to help you keep your home or business strong, safe, and structurally sound.

The Visible Signs Of A Possible Termite Infestation

While termites often stay hidden, there are several visible red flags to keep an eye out for. Here are some key clues that you may have termites lurking around your property:

• Mud tubes. These are the thin, tunnel-like structures that termites build on walls, foundations, or support beams to travel between their colony and a food source. These are major signs that an active infestation is present.
• Hollow-sounding wood and blistered, bubbling paint. This usually occurs when termites tunnel just beneath the surface, and knocking on a wall or wooden beam and hearing a hollow echo could mean the wood has been compromised.
• Small piles of frass. These are termite droppings that look like sawdust or coffee grounds.
• Visible wood damage. This can include damage to areas like baseboards, window frames, or floorboards, which might become evident as termites eat away from the inside out. If your home suddenly feels like it's shifting or doors no longer close properly, termites could be the hidden culprit behind the changes in your home's structure.

Wondering what to do if you notice any of these signs? Expert services such as termite inspections and control can help mitigate and prevent damage to the structure. Early detection is always key, and even if you're unsure, an inspection can either bring peace of mind or a plan of action for swift pest control.

What You Don't See And How A Pro Pest Control Company Can Help

The real danger with termites isn't just what you see—it's what you don't. These termite colonies can contain hundreds of thousands of insects, and much of their activity occurs behind walls, under floors, and within crawlspaces. By the time damage becomes visible, it often means the infestation has been active for months or even years.

A professional pest control team uses specialized tools like moisture meters, infrared cameras, and inspection probes to detect hidden termite activity. They can spot early signs that the average property owner would miss and recommend the best course of action—whether that's a baiting system, liquid treatment, or a customized combination approach.

Sentinel Pest Solutions is Greensboro's leading pest control team, and we're here to help with all of your termite concerns. Give us a call at 877-882-8478 today for the highest quality termite control service in the business!