Signs of a Termite Infestation in Camas, WA and When to Call a Professional

Termites are tiny but mighty—and they can cause big problems for homeowners in Camas,WA. These silent destroyers often go unnoticed until significant damage has been done. Termites are attracted to moist, wooden environments, and with the right conditions, they can quickly turn your home into their personal buffet.

Being able to spot the early signs of a termite infestation is key to preventing costly damage. If you know what to look for and when to call a professional, you can protect your home from these destructive pests.

Here’s everything you need to know about spotting a termite infestation and knowing when to call in the experts.

1. Hollow Sounding Wood

One of the most common signs of a termite infestation is hollow-sounding wood. Termites feast on wood from the inside out, leaving only a thin outer layer. If you tap on wooden surfaces—especially in areas like the walls, floors, and wooden beams—and hear a hollow sound, it could be a sign that termites are present.

• What to do: Tap on different areas of your home’s woodwork and listen for any hollow sounds. If you hear this, it’s time for an inspection.

2. Mud Tubes on Exterior Walls

Termites build mud tubes to travel between their nest and food source. These tubes, which look like little tunnels made of dirt, are often found on exterior walls, around the foundation, or near wooden structures. The tubes protect termites from the elements as they travel in and out of their colony.

• What to do: If you see mud tubes, especially in areas that have direct contact with the soil, it’s a strong sign of a termite infestation. It’s important to have a professional inspect the area right away.

3. Visible Swarmers or Wings

Swarming termites (also known as alates) are the reproductive termites that leave the colony to form new colonies. During mating season (typically in spring), you may find these flying insects around windows, doors, or other light sources. If you see a group of flying termites or discover piles of discarded wings near windowsills, it’s a sure sign that there’s a nearby colony.

• What to do: If you see a swarm of flying insects indoors, it’s time to call a pest control professional to assess the situation.

4. Small Holes or Damage to Wooden Structures

As termites chew through wood, they create small, pin-sized holes that can be difficult to notice at first. Over time, these holes can cause significant structural damage. If you notice small holes, bubbling paint, or even sagging floors or ceilings, termites could be the culprit.

• What to do: Check for any signs of damage around wooden structures in your home, such as baseboards, window frames, and wooden beams. Any visible holes or damaged areas warrant professional inspection.

5. Frass (Termite Droppings)

Frass refers to termite droppings, which look like small, dark pellets. These droppings are often found near infested wood, and they are a sign that termites have been active in the area for some time. If you find frass near wooden furniture or walls, termites have likely been living there for a while.

• What to do: If you find frass near wooden areas in your home, it’s important to call a pest control professional for a full inspection.

6. Soft or Bubbled Paint on Wooden Surfaces

If you notice that the paint on your wood surfaces (such as window frames or baseboards) has started to bubble or peel, it may be due to termites. These insects can cause wood to warp and crack, which can, in turn, lead to bubbling paint or wallpaper.

• What to do: If you spot bubbles or cracks in paint around wooden surfaces, it’s important to investigate the cause, as this could indicate termite damage.

7. High-Pitched Noises

Termites can also produce high-pitched clicking sounds, especially when they are disturbed. Worker termites make these sounds by tapping their heads on the wood or vibrating their bodies. While these noises are usually faint and difficult to hear, they may be noticeable if the infestation is large.

• What to do: If you hear unusual sounds coming from wooden areas or your walls, it’s a good idea to have an expert inspect your home.

When to Call a Professional

If you notice any of the signs listed above, it’s time to call a professional pest control service. Here’s when you should get help:

• Immediate action: If you spot flying termites or mud tubes in and around your home, call a pest control expert immediately.

• Suspected infestation: If you hear hollow wood sounds, find frass, or notice paint bubbling, it’s time to schedule an inspection.

• Visible damage: If you see holes or damage to wood surfaces, seek professional help to assess the severity of the infestation.

Final Thoughts

Termites can cause significant damage to your home, and the earlier you catch an infestation, the better. By watching for signs like hollow-sounding wood, mud tubes, flying termites, and frass, you can catch the problem before it becomes a full-blown disaster. And remember—if in doubt, call a professional pest control service in Camas to ensure your home stays safe and secure from termites.