Termites are a well-known threat in Texas, where warm temperatures and periods of high humidity create ideal conditions for colonies to thrive. Because these pests often cause damage long before homeowners realize they’re present, early detection is crucial. Identifying subtle warning signs can save thousands of dollars in repairs and help protect the structural integrity of your home. Here are the earliest indicators of termite activity every Texas homeowner should recognize.
1. Discarded Wings Near Doors and Windows
One of the first and most overlooked signs of a termite infestation is the presence of discarded wings. When reproductive termites—called swarmers—leave their colony to start new ones, they shed their wings shortly after landing. These wings often collect near entry points such as doors, window sills, and porch lights. If you find small, uniform, translucent wings in these areas, it may signal that termites are establishing a colony on your property.
2. Mud Tubes Along Foundation Walls
Subterranean termites, the most common species in Texas, build mud tubes to travel safely between their colony and their food source—your home. These pencil-sized, soil-like tubes can appear along concrete foundations, brick walls, crawl spaces, or wooden beams. Mud tubes help termites stay moist and protected from the open air. Even a single tube should be taken seriously, as it’s a clear sign of active termite movement.
3. Hollow-Sounding or Soft Wood
Termites feed on wood from the inside out, leaving the surface intact while hollowing out the material beneath. If you tap or press on wood around your home and it feels soft, weak, or sounds hollow, there may be structural damage developing. This can occur around baseboards, window frames, attic joists, or flooring. In severe cases, wood may crumble easily when touched.
4. Blistering or Bubbling Paint
Paint that appears to bubble, blister, or peel can sometimes be mistaken for water damage—but termites can cause similar effects. As they tunnel close to the surface of wood, they create pockets that distort the exterior paint or drywall. If you notice unusual surface changes without any known moisture issue, consider that termite activity may be the cause.
5. Termite Droppings or “Frass”
Drywood termites create small, pellet-like droppings known as frass. These tiny granules often accumulate in small piles that resemble sawdust or coffee grounds. Unlike subterranean termites, which keep their tunnels sealed, drywood termites push frass out of small holes near their nesting sites. Any odd piles of dust-like material around wooden structures should be evaluated.
6. Tight-Fitting Doors or Hard-to-Open Windows
As termites tunnel through wood, they can cause warping that affects the fit of doors and windows. If you suddenly notice doors sticking or windows becoming difficult to open, termites may be altering the internal structure. While moisture can cause similar issues, unexplained changes should be inspected.
Protect Your Home Before Damage Escalates
Because termite damage progresses quietly and often invisibly, early detection is essential for protecting your home’s value and safety. If you notice any of these signs—or even if you’re simply unsure—it’s best to bring in a professional before the problem spreads.
For expert inspections and reliable protection, contact Shoop's Texas Termite & Pest Control at (940) 289-8079. Our team is here to safeguard Texas homes with thorough, proven solutions.