Termites are relentless little creatures that can silently wreak havoc on your property. Recognising the signs of termite infestation is crucial for early intervention. In Singapore, where termite protection is prevalent, staying informed is your best defence. Here are four key pointers to help you spot the warning signs:
- Hollowed-Out Wood:
Termites are notorious for devouring wood from the inside out, leaving it hollow, weak, and brittle. When termites infest wooden structures, they often consume the cellulose inside while leaving the outer surface intact. This means that even if the wood looks solid on the outside, it could be severely damaged within. If you tap or press on a wooden surface and it produces a hollow sound or feels unusually soft, it’s a strong indicator that termites have been at work. This hollowing effect not only compromises the integrity of the wood but also poses a significant risk to the structural safety of your home. The earlier you detect this, the better, as immediate termite control in Singapore is crucial to prevent further damage and ensure the stability of your property.
- Mud Tubes:
Subterranean termites are highly dependent on moisture and protection from the environment, which is why they construct mud tubes to safely navigate above ground. These pencil-thin, earth-coloured tubes are composed of soil, saliva, and faecal matter, and can be found along walls, foundations, or wooden structures. These tubes serve as protective highways for termites, allowing them to travel between their colony and food sources without being exposed to light and air, which can be fatal to them. The presence of mud tubes is a telltale sign of an active termite infestation. Breaking a section of the tube can reveal if the termites are still using it—if you see active termites inside, it’s a clear signal that professional intervention is needed immediately to avoid further structural damage.
- Discarded Wings:
When termites mature and begin swarming to establish new colonies, they shed their wings after mating. These wings are often found in piles near window sills, doors, light sources, or anywhere termites might have entered or exited your home. The wings are small, translucent, and can resemble fish scales. Finding discarded termite wings is a significant red flag, indicating that a termite colony is either nearby or has already infested your property. This phase of the termite life cycle is crucial because it signals the potential expansion of the infestation. If you discover these wings, it’s essential to act quickly and seek termite control services in Singapore to prevent the spread and ensure the safety of your home.
- Tightening Door Frames and Windows:
As termites feed on the wooden structures of your home, they can cause substantial damage that may not be immediately visible. One of the subtle signs of termite damage is the warping or tightening of door frames and window sills. As termites consume the wood, the structural integrity of these areas weakens, causing them to warp or shift out of alignment. You might notice that doors and windows that once opened smoothly are now difficult to move, or they might stick or jam when you try to use them. This warping occurs because the internal structure has been compromised, leading to uneven pressure and changes in the shape of the wood. If you observe this kind of change in your home, it’s a clear indication that termite activity is likely present and that immediate action is needed to prevent further damage and costly repairs.
If you suspect termite activity, don’t hesitate to seek professional termite control services to safeguard your property. Contact Rentokil today!
