Termites are a pervasive problem in many parts of the United States, and Northwest Louisiana is no exception. Our region’s warm and humid climate provides an ideal habitat for these wood-destroying pests, and when they infest homes and other structures, they can cause minor to more significant damage. Unfortunately, termite infestations aren’t readily apparent because these “silent destroyers” work under the radar. It’s not until more extensive damage has occurred that most property owners notice a problem. That’s why it’s important for residents in Shreveport, Bossier, and throughout the state to know how to identify termite activity. In this article, our locally owned and family-operated pest control company will share common signs of termites and what to do if you discover these pests on your property. 

termite wings shed by swarming termites

 Why termites are called silent destroyers

Subterranean termites are "silent destroyers" because they can cause significant damage to homes and buildings and other cellulose-based materials right under the property owner's nose. They live in colonies underground, travel through an extensive tunnel system (more on that shortly), and infest structures without being seen. Moreover, these pests consume wood from the inside out, leaving only a thin layer of wood on the surface, making it difficult to detect an infestation until the damage becomes severe.

Warning signs of termites

Although termites aren’t easy to detect, there are some telltale signs you can look out for to catch them early. From strange mud tubes and discarded wings to wood that sounds hollow when you tap it, spotting these signs can help you avoid a more significant problem later on. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the signs of termites. 

Termite mud tubes

Termites create structures called mud tubes. They use these tubes to protect themselves from the impact of dry air and moisture-evaporating heat. A mud tube is about the width of a pencil and looks like a mud line extending from the soil to the foundation. Termite mud tubes can also be found along exterior walls, inside crawl spaces and basements, on sill plates and floor joists, in the attic, and even on decks, porches, and fences. Of course, property owners have found termite mud tubes in other places, so be thorough when searching for these termite highways. 

Termite swarmers and discarded wings 

Termite swarms consist of male and female alates, also called reproductives. These winged termites fly out of their nests to find mates. Once they pair up, they shed their wings and start new colonies. 

Termite swarms can occur both indoors and outdoors. Inside the home, you may see winged termites swarming around doors and windows, in the basement or attic, in bathrooms and kitchens, and coming out from the walls through electrical outlets. Outside the house, termite swarms are often observed near the foundation, around wooden structures, and in the yard. 

As mentioned above, once termites have found their mates, they shed their wings. Even if you don’t see the swarm happen, you may find evidence of a termite swarm in the form of discarded wings on windowsills, near light sources, and in other areas of your home. 

Termite damage

Termite damage can sometimes resemble water damage or wood rot, making it challenging to identify. Blisters in wood flooring, sagging floors and ceilings, peeling or bubbling paint, stuck windows and doors, and wood that sounds hollow when tapped on are all examples of termite damage. Over time, extensive termite damage can lead to significant structural issues, such as weakened foundations, collapsing woodwork, and other serious problems. 

What should you do when you see signs of termite activity?

If you see signs of termites in or around your home, it's important to act quickly to stop or prevent further damage. Here at Anti-Pest, we offer effective termite control services in Caddo, Bossier, and DeSoto Parishes and are ready to help property owners eliminate and prevent termites!

How our trusted professionals exterminate termites 

Our pest control experts trust the Sentricon® System with Always Active to exterminate existing termite infestations and stop new colonies from establishing. Here’s why: 

  • Backed by more than 60 scientific and 30 independent research studies, Sentricon® is the only termite control product proven time and again to eliminate entire colonies.
  • The effectiveness of the Sentricon® System does not degrade over time.
  • The Sentricon® System does not attract termites; termites find the bait stations through their relentless search and continuous foraging for food sources.
  • Bait stations are installed around a property’s perimeter to create a barrier of protection; no drilling or trenching is required. 
     

When you contact us for help getting rid of termites, we’ll perform a termite inspection to determine if these wood-destroying insects are present, locate termite damage, and identify potential entry points and conducive conditions. Then, we’ll get to work installing the Sentricon System! 

Anti-Pest’s termite control service also includes a one-year termite re-treatment warranty that can be renewed every year as long as we can perform an annual termite inspection. 

You can learn more about our termite plan and pricing below or call us with any questions. 

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Termite Plan

Termite Control

Termites cause an estimated annual damage of around $6.8 billion in the U.S. when adjusted for inflation. Unfortunately, Louisiana's warm and humid climate attracts termites and provides them with an opportunity to thrive. If you've noticed mud tubes or other signs of termites, contact Anti-Pest for effective termite control in Shreveport, Bossier City, and surrounding areas. 

  • Year-round termite protection
  • Termite control featuring Sentricon® Always Active
  • Yearly termite inspection & re-treatment warranty

Starting at $30/mo

*Initial (Install) Service starts at $995. After Initial Service, subscriptions start at $30/month. Other terms and conditions may apply.

Get Started or call (318) 221-6181

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