Symptoms
- Thin, pencil-sized mud tubes running up the foundation wall or a support post
- Wood that sounds hollow when tapped, or crumbles easily
- Discarded wings near windowsills or doors, especially in spring
Likely causes
- CommonSubterranean termites building tubes from soil to a wood food sourceThese tubes protect termites from drying out as they travel between the ground and the wood they're eating.
- CommonWood-to-soil contact around the houseWood siding, posts, or framing touching soil directly gives termites an easy, hidden entry point.
- PossibleMoisture-damaged wood attracting termite activityTermites are often drawn to wood that's already softened by water damage.
What to do
- Look closely at the foundation, especially in corners and around porch or deck supports, for mud tubes.
- Tap suspect wood trim or framing with the handle of a screwdriver; a hollow or papery sound suggests internal damage.
- Do not disturb a mud tube if found; leave it intact so a pest professional can assess current activity.
- Check around the yard for wood-to-soil contact, like buried lumber, stacked firewood against the house, or wood fence posts, and address ones near the structure.
- Fix any moisture issues near the foundation, since damp wood is more attractive to termites.
- Schedule a professional termite inspection promptly, since termite damage can be extensive before it's visible from the outside.
- Follow the recommended treatment plan, which is not a practical DIY project given how termite colonies operate.
Tools and parts
- Screwdriver (for tap testing)
- Flashlight
When to call a pro
Call a licensed termite/pest control company for inspection and treatment; this isn't a practical DIY fix.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.