How to Identify Termite Infestation in Your Wooden Furniture
A termite infestation is the worst thing that can happen to your wooden furniture. The small creatures can dig into your furniture and cause permanent damage without you even noticing a problem. They do not come with a warning, and it may be too late once you realize that the menacing insects are in your home. For this reason, it is essential to look out for the signs which are a clear indication that termites may be digging into your wooden furniture.
It is critical to understand that there are different types of termites and not all of them destroy furniture. This understanding will come in handy as you seek treatment since you will know what you are dealing with. The following are the types of termites existing today:
- Damp wood termites which like to attack wood that has high moisture content; therefore, they are less likely to be found in homes as wood furniture does not have moisture.
- Dry wood termites are the species found in most homes as they attack dry wood used in flooring, cabinetry, sofas, and other types of wooden furniture.
- Subterranean termites which dwell in the soil and are considered the most destructive termite species as they can eat into structural timber at a breakneck pace.
Dry wood and subterranean termite species are the ones that you are likely to find in your home. You should look out for the following signs which indicate an infestation.
Broken wings on fixtures
Termites usually crawl, but they have wings that are usually shed once they find wood which they can dig into. If you find small wings near your furniture, window seals, door and other entry points in the home, you may have an infestation. Make a point of inspecting your entryways, exits and furniture to look out for these wings. Call an exterminator immediately to protect your furniture from extensive damage.
Cracked paint
Termites usually start attacking wood from the inside; therefore, signs may not be visible on the exterior part of the structure at once. However, if the structure is painted, for example, a wooden fence, the paint will start to crack or bubble. You may also notice the termites waste within the bubbled paint. Cracked paint on wooden structure should not be taken lightly. Inspect it further to identify wood damage which would indicate a termite infestation.
Wood echoes when tapped
Wood is one of the best materials for making furniture due to its strength. However, when termites dig into it, they leave a hollow space which weakens the wood. If you tap on a table that's infested, you will notice an echo sound as the wood is now hollow. Perform this check on your furniture regularly.
A termite infestation can spread pretty fast if not managed. Contact a professional for termite control services.