Originally posted on June 3, 2023 @ 12:04 am

Termites are one of the most destructive pests that can infest a home, causing significant and expensive damage to the structure. This is because they feed on wood, and if left unchecked, they can cause a lot of damage before you even realize they’re there. In this article, we will explore the signs of termite infestation and what wood infested with termites looks like.

Wood infested with termites can be difficult to identify at first glance. Termites are known for their ability to burrow deep into wood and feed on the cellulose, leaving behind only a thin layer of wood-like material. This can make it difficult to detect early infestations, causing extensive damage before being discovered. In this article, we will explore the telltale signs of termite infestation in wood, including the appearance of the wood, visible damage, and other indicators.

The Physical Appearance of Termites

Before we dive into the appearance of infested wood, it’s important to understand what termites look like. Termites are small, pale insects that range from ¼ to ½ inch in length. They have a soft body and straight antennae, and they are often mistaken for ants. However, termites have a broad waist and straight antennae, while ants have a narrow waist and elbowed antennae.

Signs of Termite Infestation

The first step in identifying a termite problem is to look for signs of an infestation. Here are some common signs of termite activity:

Mud tubes: Termites build mud tubes to travel from their nests to their food source. These tubes are about the width of a pencil and are usually found along walls, foundations, and other surfaces.
Discarded wings: When termites swarm, they shed their wings, leaving them behind. You may find piles of discarded wings near windows, doors, and other entry points.
Wood damage: Termites eat wood from the inside out, leaving a thin layer of wood on the surface. This can cause wood to sound hollow when tapped or even collapse when pressed.
Termite droppings: Termites produce tiny, pellet-like droppings called frass. You may find these droppings in piles near infested wood or in spider webs.

What Does Infested Wood Look Like?

Now that you know what to look for in terms of signs of termite activity, let’s take a closer look at what infested wood looks like. When termites infest wood, they leave behind telltale signs that can help you identify the problem.

Discoloration

One of the most obvious signs of termite infestation is discoloration. The wood may appear darker or have a yellowish tint. This is because termites eat the cellulose in the wood, leaving behind the lignin. Lignin is a natural polymer that gives wood its strength and color. When termites eat the cellulose, they leave behind the lignin, which is darker in color.

Blisters or Bubbles

Another sign of termite infestation is the presence of blisters or bubbles on the surface of the wood. This is caused by termites eating the wood from the inside out, leaving a thin layer of wood on the surface. As the wood dries, it shrinks, causing the surface layer to detach from the rest of the wood. This can create blisters or bubbles on the surface of the wood.

Hollow Sound

When you tap on infested wood, it may sound hollow. This is because termites eat the wood from the inside out, leaving a thin layer of wood on the surface. When you tap on the wood, you’re actually tapping on the surface layer, which is not attached to the rest of the wood.

Maze-Like Patterns

Termites eat wood in a distinctive pattern, creating maze-like channels or grooves in the wood. These channels are often filled with soil, frass, or other debris. If you find wood with these patterns, it’s likely that termites have been feeding on it.

Weakness or Crumbling

Infested wood may also feel weak or crumble easily. This is because termites eat the wood from the inside out, weakening its structure. Over time, the wood may become so weak that it crumbles easily when touched.

Prevention and Treatment

Now that you know what to look for in terms of signs of termite infestation and what infested wood looks like, it’s important to take steps to prevent and treat a termite problem. Here are some tips:

Keep wood away from your home’s foundation: Termites are attracted to wood, so it’s important to keep it away from your home’s foundation. Store firewood, lumber, and other wood products at least 20 feet from your home.
Fix leaks: Termites are attracted to moisture, so it’s important to fix any leaks in your home’s plumbing or roof.
Use treated wood: If you’re building a deck, fence, or other outdoor structure, use treated wood that is resistant to termites.
Schedule regular inspections: It’s important to have your home inspected for termites on a regular basis. A professional inspector can identify signs of termite activity and recommend treatment options if necessary.
Treat infestations promptly: If you do find signs of termite activity, it’s important to treat the infestation promptly. There are several treatment options available, including chemical treatments and bait systems.

In conclusion, termites are a serious problem that can cause significant damage to your home’s structure. By knowing what to look for in terms of signs of termite activity and what infested wood looks like, you can take steps to prevent and treat a termite problem. Remember to schedule regular inspections and treat infestations promptly to protect your home from these destructive pests.

FAQs for what does wood infested with termites look like

What does wood infested with termites look like?

Wood infested with termites may contain tiny holes, tunnels, or grooves on the surface. The wood will also sound hollow when tapped as termites eat away at the interior structure. You may also notice mud tubes or shelter tubes made of dirt or termite droppings along the exterior or interior of the wood. The wood may have a weak or rotten texture, and if the infestation is severe, the structural integrity of the wood may be compromised.

Can I tell if wood is infested with termites by its appearance alone?

It is difficult to identify termite infestation just by looking at the appearance of the wood. Sometimes, an infestation may not be visible to the naked eye. To be sure, you can check for hollow-sounding wood by tapping the surface or use a moisture meter to check for excess moisture which can be an indication of termite infestation. It is best to have a termite inspection carried out by a professional to identify the extent of the infestation.

How can I prevent a termite infestation?

To prevent a termite infestation, it is important to keep the area around your home free of termites. Remove any decaying wood or tree stumps near your home to eliminate a possible source of food for termites. Keep the area around your home dry by ensuring proper drainage and fixing any leaks or water damage. Seal cracks and crevices around your home’s foundation, walls, and windows to prevent termites from entering. You can also use termite-resistant materials when building new structures.

Can I treat a termite infestation on my own?

It is not recommended to treat a termite infestation on your own. There are many different species of termites, and treatment methods vary depending on the type of termite present. If you attempt to treat a termite infestation on your own without identifying the exact species of termite, you may cause further damage to your property. It is best to have a professional termite inspection and treatment carried out to ensure effective and safe eradication of termites.