5 Signs Your Jacksonville Home May Have Termites
Termites are silent invaders that can cause serious damage to your Jacksonville home if left unchecked. With the warm, humid climate here in Jacksonville, FL, your property may be particularly susceptible to these wood-destroying pests. But how do you know if termites are eating away at your home’s foundation? Here are five warning signs to watch for:
1. Swarmers or Discarded Wings
Termite swarmers, or winged termites, are one of the first signs of an infestation. These are reproductive termites that leave their nests to start new colonies. You might notice these small, winged insects flying around your home, especially near windows or doors. After they swarm, they shed their wings. If you find piles of discarded wings around your home, it’s a clear sign termites are nearby and looking to settle in.
2. Mud Tubes Along Your Foundation
Subterranean termites, the most common type found in Jacksonville, build mud tubes to protect themselves from predators and dry air. These pencil-thin tubes can usually be found on the exterior walls of your home, along the foundation, or in crawl spaces. If you see these tunnels, it means termites are actively moving between their underground colony and your house. Break off a small section of the tube; if termites are present, they will rebuild it within a few days.
3. Wood Damage or Hollow-Sounding Wood
Termites eat wood from the inside out, so damage isn’t always visible on the surface. Tap on wooden structures in your home, such as baseboards or door frames. If they sound hollow or give way easily, termites may have already begun to feast. Additionally, look for blistered or dark areas on wood surfaces. This could be a sign that termites have burrowed just beneath the surface.
4. Frass (Termite Droppings)
Drywood termites, another type common in Jacksonville, create small, pellet-shaped droppings called frass. Termites push this waste out of their tunnels, leaving tiny piles near entry points. Frass looks like sawdust or coffee grounds and is often found near windowsills, baseboards, or wooden furniture. Spotting frass indoors is a strong indicator that termites have made their way inside.
5. Tight-Fitting Doors and Windows
Termites produce moisture as they tunnel through wood, causing it to warp and swell. If your doors or windows suddenly become difficult to open or close, it could be a sign of termite damage. Don’t chalk it up to Jacksonville’s humidity—check for other signs of infestation to be sure.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late To Get Termite Control!
If you notice any of these signs in your Jacksonville home, it’s time to act fast. Termites can cause thousands of dollars in damage in a short period. Schedule a professional termite inspection right away with Busy Bee Termite & Pest Control to protect your home and your investment.
Have you noticed any signs of termites? Contact us today for a free inspection and take the first step toward peace of mind!