Swarms! Top Five Signs of a Termite Infestation

The National Pest Management Association shares telltale signs of termite trouble

FAIRFAX, VA (March 8, 2017) – With spring in the air, home improvement and spring-cleaning projects are top of mind. Homeowners should be on the look out for signs of a termite infestation, as spring is also prime time for termites to feed on homes. Termite infestations cause more than $5 billion in property damage in the U.S. every year and can go completely undetected by homeowners for years. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is working to spread awareness about these wood-destroying organisms during Termite Awareness Week, March 12-18, by educating consumers on the top signs of a termite problem.

Nicknamed “silent destroyers,” termites seek out moisture-damaged homes and chew through wood, flooring and even wallpaper — causing structural damage that is typically not covered by homeowners insurance.

“As we approach the warmer months when termites emerge in search of new structures to invade, it’s important for homeowners to know how to spot a termite issue,” said Cindy Mannes, vice president of public affairs at NPMA. “If you see something suspicious or a termite problem is found, homeowners should contact a pest professional to assess the severity of the situation and recommend a treatment plan, as termites often cause damage to homes completely behind-the-scenes.”

NPMA shares the top signs of spotting a termite infestation:

1. Discarded wings, near windowsills and doors, are often the only outwardly visible sign of an infestation
2. Subterranean termites build mud tubes found near the home’s foundation to provide moisture while they travel between their colony and food source
3. Wood that is soft and sounds hollow when tapped, or dark and blistering pieces of wood
4. Uneven or bubbling paint is often a sign of moisture build up, which could mean one of two things – water damage or termites
5. Light, wood-colored droppings that resemble sawdust inside or outside the home

For more information on termites, how to prevent them, or to find a licensed pest control professional, visit PestWorld.org.

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About the National Pest Management Association

The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 7,000 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry's commitment to the protection of public health, food and property. For more information, visit PestWorld.org.