Not all termites like to live in the timbers of people's homes. Some, like subterranean termites, will prefer to make their nests under piles of rotting wood or old stumps where they feel more protected and have a source of food. Drywood termites, which are prevalent in many parts of Australia, are notorious for making their homes in the structures made by humans, however. If you don't take action with a pest control expert once drywood termites have started to take up residence in your home, then they will cause a great deal of damage. It is always better, therefore, to carry out a regular pest inspection to ensure you catch them at an early stage. What should you be looking out for?
Bore Holes
One of the most obvious signs that drywood termites have worked their way into your floorboards, weatherboarding or joists is that small holes will be left behind. These are their boreholes which allow them to gain access into the timbers of your home. If you see them, then it is a sure indication that there will be at least some drywood termites eating their way through your wood. What you should be looking for during your pest inspection is a hole that is larger than that would be made by a drawing pin but smaller than that would be made by a dart. If you are in doubt, then consult a pest control professional.
Disturbed Paintwork
Lots of wood in and around Australian homes is either varnished or painted. When drywood termites are living inside such timbers, there will usually be a deterioration on the surface. Look out for things like flaking sections of paint, especially if they are close to boreholes. Another sign of termites you might see during your pest inspection is bubbling paintwork. If you keep your timbers varnished and painted regularly, then it makes them less appealing to drywood termites in the first place.
Hollow Sounding Wood
Any good pest inspection should rely on your ears as well as what you can see. In the case of drywood termites in the home, simply knocking on timbers is a good idea. Hollowed-out wood will sound empty and cavernous when you knock on it. You may also detect a rattling noise if the timbers have been sufficiently destroyed inside. Sometimes, drywood termites make buzzing noises, too. However, these tend to cease when you are present so sit silently for a while. If such a sound picks up, then you'll probably need to call in pest controllers.
For more information, contact a pest inspection service today.
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