Signs of Termite Damage
Think you have termites? Learn warning signs, inspection tips, and treatment costs ($500–$2,500).
Typical repair cost: $500–$2500 · DIY difficulty: Professional Only · About N/A.
What usually causes it
- Wood-to-ground contact
- Moisture issues
- Cracks in foundation
- Woodpiles near home
- Lack of treatment barrier
What you need
- Flashlight
- Screwdriver (for probing wood)
How to fix it yourself
- Look for mud tubes along foundation walls — these are termite highways
- Tap wood surfaces — hollow-sounding wood may indicate internal damage
- Check for discarded wings near windows and doors (swarmer season: spring)
- Look for frass (termite droppings) — looks like small wood-colored pellets
- Inspect crawl spaces and basement wood for damage
- DO NOT attempt to treat termites yourself — professional treatment is essential
When to call a pro
Always — termite treatment requires specialized chemicals and equipment. DIY treatments don't reach the colony.