How to Spot Termite Damage Before It’s Too Late: A Homeowner’s Guide

Termites are known as "silent destroyers" for a reason. By the time you see visible signs of damage, they may have already caused thousands of dollars in repairs. If you're a California homeowner, recognizing the early warning signs of termite activity can save you money, protect your investment, and avoid serious structural issues. Here’s how to spot termite damage before it’s too late.

Hollow or Damaged Wood

Termites feed on wood from the inside out. One of the most common signs is wood that sounds hollow when tapped. You might also notice blistering or bubbling in paint, which could indicate that termites are chewing beneath the surface.

Check for:

• Baseboards and window sills that crumble easily

• Flooring that feels soft or spongy

• Visible grooves or tunnels in exposed wood

Mud Tubes Along Walls or Foundations

Subterranean termites create mud tubes to protect themselves while traveling between their colony and your home. These pencil-width tunnels are usually found along foundation walls, under sinks, or in crawl spaces.

If you see mud tubes:Break one open. If termites are present, you'll see them inside. Even if they aren't visible, the presence of tubes is enough reason to call a professional.

Discarded Wings or Swarmers

Flying termites, known as swarmers, emerge to form new colonies. After mating, they shed their wings, which can often be found near windowsills, doors, or light fixtures.

Warning signs include:

• Small piles of wings

• Sightings of flying termites indoors

• Sudden appearance of what looks like ants with wings

Tight-Fitting Doors and Windows

Moisture from termite activity can warp wood, making doors and windows difficult to open or close. If your home suddenly feels “off” in certain areas, termites could be to blame.

Clicking Sounds in Walls

It may sound strange, but termites are noisy eaters. Soldier termites bang their heads against tunnel walls to signal danger, while workers constantly chew through wood. If you hear a faint clicking or tapping in your walls, don’t ignore it.

Sagging Floors or Ceilings

Over time, termite damage weakens wood support beams and joists. This can lead to visible structural problems such as sagging floors, ceilings, or even bulging walls.

Bubbling or Peeling Paint

Paint that appears bubbled, cracked, or peeling can be a sign of moisture from termite activity below the surface. While it might look like water damage, it’s worth having a termite inspection to rule out a deeper issue.

What to Do if You Suspect Termite Damage

If you notice one or more of these signs, don’t delay. Termite damage worsens with time, and the longer you wait, the more costly the repairs can be. A professional inspection from a licensed termite company like Proven Termite Solutions can confirm the presence of termites and recommend the right treatment plan.

Why Choose Proven Termite Solutions

• Locally owned and operated in California

• Decades of experience with drywood and subterranean termites

• Safe and effective treatments, including green options

• Free inspections for homeowners

Sometimes homeowners confuse termite damage with water damage because both can cause wood to weaken, warp, or blister. To understand the key differences and make sure you take the right action, read our guide: Termite Damage vs Water Damage: How to Tell the Difference. If you’re scheduling an inspection to confirm termite activity, make sure you’re asking the right questions during the visit. Our guide, What to Ask During a Termite Inspection, walks you through what to ask your inspector so you get the most accurate information about your home. Schedule Your Termite Inspection Today Protect your home before it's too late. Contact Proven Termite Solutions today.