Many homeowners are surprised to hear that termites cause billions of dollars in structural damage every single year. In addition to doing an extensive amount of physical damage, some termites also carry a variety of harmful diseases. Those are just a few of the reasons why it is so important to catch and eradicate these infestations as quickly as possible. Here is a closer look at three common signs of a termite colony and a few steps you can take to get rid of these pests.

Piles Of Pellets

Also known as frass, termite droppings are small pellets that resemble grains of sand. Many termite infestations go unnoticed for months because homeowners think that the droppings are nothing more than dust or sand that has been tracked into the home. Pellets are generally left in piles near food sources such as wooden boards, insulation, drywall, old books , and cardboard boxes. You should also look for piles of frass outside of the home near fences, wood piles, and trees.

Tapping Sounds In The Walls

Within a short period of time, termites will create hollow tunnels and chambers in your floors and walls. As the colony continues to grow, you might notice unusual scrapping or tapping sounds coming from the walls. Even if the noises aren’t being caused by termites, you still need to contact a local pest control company to have your home inspected. Those noises can be made by other unwanted critters including cockroaches, rats, and mice. You should also contact an exterminator if your walls or floors sound hollow when tapped or begin to sag.

Discarded Wings

Depending on what type of termites are in your home, you might also notice discarded wings. When a drywood termite becomes mature, it will eventually shed its wings entirely. The piles of wings can easily be mistaken for plant materials such as leaves and petals. As soon as you notice the wings, you must contact a pest control specialist to explore your options. Discarded wings are a clear sign that a full termite colony is nesting in your home and a new generation is about to hatch.
If you notice any of these common signs, then you must act immediately. Consider contacting professionals, like those at EMCO Pest Control , to help you rid yourself of your termite troubles. Ignoring a termite infestation could result in thousands of dollars in damage within just a few months. An experienced exterminator can help you come up with a long-term plan to get rid of the insects and prevent future infestations.

Author's Bio: 

Emma is a freelance writer currently living in Boston, MA. She writes most often on education and business. To see more from Emma, say hi on Twitter @EmmaSturgis2