Termite Infestation Signs and Treatment Guide for Homeowners

Termites can silently damage wooden structures from inside, often unnoticed until significant decay occurs. Homeowners may hear a hollow "bop bop" when knocking on a wooden door, find fine powder beneath door frames, or see soil tunnels along walls—indicators of dry‑wood termites (Cryptotermes domesticus) or subterranean termites (Coptotermes).

Dry‑wood termites build nests within dry wood, ejecting tiny, hard pellets that accumulate under furniture, doors, and ceilings. Subterranean termites require moisture, creating mud tubes that connect underground colonies to wood. Effective control follows four steps: (1) identify the type of termite and its signs; (2) delimit the affected area and inspect all connected wooden components; (3) choose an appropriate treatment based on species, infestation extent, and construction details; and (4) apply targeted methods such as replacing heavily damaged items, isolating wood for heat or specialized chemical treatment, or using professional pest‑control techniques to eradicate the colony.