How Can I Spot Signs of Termites in My Scranton Home?
As summer wraps up in Scranton, homeowners often shift their focus away from pest concerns, but that can be a mistake when it comes to termites. These pests don’t disappear with the change in seasons. Subterranean termites can stay active all year long under the right conditions, especially in warm, damp spaces like basements and crawl spaces. Even when outdoor temperatures drop, they can keep feeding and spreading inside climate-controlled homes. Infestations often go unnoticed because they tend to stay hidden until real damage has been done.
Every year, termites cause billions of dollars in property damage across the United States, and much of that destruction happens before property owners realize there’s a problem. The earlier you catch an infestation, the easier and less costly it is to deal with.
Evergreen Pest Solutions is here to help homeowners in Scranton and surrounding areas recognize the signs of termite activity and protect their homes from these destructive pests.
Why Termites Are a Real Threat in Scranton
Subterranean termites are the most common species in our region. They prefer warm, moist conditions, so they’re especially active in summer. Since they live in underground colonies, cold weather isn’t a problem; they simply move deeper below the frost line or settle into warm, heated homes to stay active year-round.
Scranton’s older homes and wood-based construction make the area even more vulnerable. Subterranean termites prefer soft or water-damaged wood, but don’t stop there. Even dry, solid wood can become fodder for termites once they’ve moved in. And because they tend to operate under the radar behind walls and under floors, they can be active for months or even years before they’re discovered.
Signs of a Termite Problem in Your Home
Termites are stealthy. You’re unlikely to see them crawling out in the open, and they don’t make much noise as they do their destructive work. Still, they do leave behind some clues. If you know what to look for, you can catch a termite problem early.
Mud Tubes
These narrow tunnels, about the width of a pencil, are made of dirt and termite saliva. Termites build them along walls, foundations, and other surfaces to safely travel between their colony and food source. If you spot mud tubes on your foundation or inside your crawl space, termites are likely present.
Hollow-Sounding or Damaged Wood
Termites feed on the inside of wood, so damage often isn’t visible on the surface. If you tap on baseboards, window sills, or door frames and they sound hollow, that’s a red flag. You might also notice peeling paint, bubbling wallpaper, sagging floors, or bulging walls. These are all signs that the wood behind them has been compromised, often significantly.
Swarmers (Winged Termites)
Swarmers are reproductive termites that emerge in groups during the spring to start new colonies. If you see a sudden appearance of winged insects near your windows, doors, or lights, it could be a termite swarm. Even if you don’t see the swarm, piles of shed wings strongly indicate that termites are nearby.
Tight-Fitting Doors or Windows
As termites eat through wooden frames, moisture can accumulate. That moisture causes wood to swell or warp, making your windows and doors stick or become hard to open and close. If your frames suddenly don’t fit like they used to, it may not just be humidity—it could be termites.
Where to Check for Termite Activity in Your Scranton Home
There are certain areas where signs of activity are more common. Make it a habit to check the following areas regularly:
- Basement walls and crawl spaces
- Window sills and door frames
- Wooden porches and deck supports
- Floor joists, attic beams, and any exposed structural framing
What to Do If You Suspect Termites
If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs—or even if you’re just unsure—don’t wait. Contact Evergreen Pest Solutions for assistance right away. Our trained experts know exactly where to look and what to look for to confirm whether termites are present.
Catching a termite problem early can prevent significant damage and expensive repairs (repairs that homeowners' insurance doesn’t typically cover), so acting quickly is always in your best interest.
Why Choose Evergreen Pest Solutions in Scranton
If your home doesn’t have termite protection, it’s time to take action. Evergreen Pest Solutions offers comprehensive termite control services that start with a professional inspection to identify activity, damage, and conducive conditions.
Based on our assessment, we’ll recommend the best termite treatment option for your structure. Whether that’s the installation of a termite baiting system or a liquid treatment, you can rely on our team to provide long-term protection for your home!
We’re committed to honest, effective service and proven results. If you’re ready to protect your home from termite damage, reach out today to schedule your inspection and get started.
