Drywood termites fly out of exit holes, also called kick out holes, in wood to leave their nests during swarming. True termite exit holes are also known as kick out holes. These help pest control professionals locate termite colonies and effectively treat and eliminate them. This is crucial as it ensures that the correct type of treatment is applied.
Another thing to look out for is termite droppings, or frass. Read our blog “What Do Termite Dropping Look Like?” to learn more.
What Do Termite Holes Look Like?
Termite exit holes can be difficult to identify as they are visible for only a brief period. Moreover, other pests create holes that can be easily confused with termite holes. Hence, to determine the presence of a termite infestation, a professional inspection is the ideal way forward. A qualified technician will evaluate the hole’s size, shape, and position to determine the pest responsible for creating them.
Round holes that are smaller than 1/8 inch are known as termite exit holes. After the termites have left the nest, young termites called nymphs will seal the exit holes. They use a brown material made of their own waste. These holes go unnoticed if the source of the colony is not identified during or immediately after the swarm takes place.
When subterranean termites swarm, they don’t create holes in wood since they build their nests underground, in soil. Unlike drywood termites, they do not leave visible exit holes. Their escape routes are constructed to guide them up to the surface.
Unlike drywood termites, subterranean termites do not leave visible exit holes. Their escape routes are constructed to guide them up to the surface.
To correctly identify the presence of termites, it is crucial to seek assistance from a termite specialist. Many bugs and pests can damage wood by creating holes. This includes beetles, bees, wasps, and subterranean termites.
Typically, they leave openings or structures made of earth as a means of egress. A termite expert will look at the type and age of the wood. Additionally, they will look at the size and shape of the exit holes to figure out whether termites caused the damage.
Do All Termites Leave Holes in Wood?
Termites mostly eat wood and can create small holes in it. However, only one type of termite makes visible exit holes in wood when they build new colonies.
They use their waste to fill the holes. To identify different types of termites, you’ll need to ask a termite specialist for help. This particular species is usually found in places like attics, garages, woodpiles, and around trees.
Termites tend to make holes mostly when they’re in their mating season, which is during the spring and summer months.
Termites may still be present even if there are no visible termite holes. In Texas, subterranean termites are prevalent and they don’t construct their homes in wood. Instead, these termites traverse via mud tubes that are generally slender and possess a brownish hue. These mud tubes can typically be found along walls and floors.
Do Other Insects Leave Holes in Wood?
Wood damage doesn’t only happen because of termites. There are other pests that make networks within wooden structures for nesting or traveling, creating problems as well. Various insects, like those commonly found in Texas, can cause harm to wood.
In case you observe small, circular perforations and find sawdust scattered nearby, it may indicate the presence of carpenter ants. These little creatures are usually black or red in color.
Carpenter bees can harm wood by creating tiny holes, similar in size to a fingertip, and leaving yellow-brown stains.
Powderpost Beetles refer to more than 70 types of beetles that bore into wood. They make tiny holes and can rapidly transform the wood into dust.
Bark beetles are aptly named for their ability to easily chew through wood, leaving behind small, white masses on the surface.
In the event that damage is observed in your home, it is imperative to seek the assistance of pest control professionals. They can help identify the type of wood-boring pest, such as carpenter bees, carpenter ants, or powderpost beetles. Each type needs a different treatment, so it’s important to know which pest you’re dealing with.
Repairing Termite Holes
Detecting termites can be quite challenging due to their tendency to rapidly seal their entry points. This leads to a delay in identification, allowing for termites to establish a large nest before becoming noticeable. However, the damage caused by these insects is mostly restricted to a particular area, thankfully. Typically, termites require several decades to cause significant structural problems throughout an entire residence.
To properly assess the damage caused by termites, it’s recommended to have a professional inspection. A trained technician can accurately identify the main areas affected by the infestation, including any nests that may be present. Once the termites have been exterminated and preventative measures taken to avoid future infestation, repair work can commence.
Getting a professional inspection is important because it helps you identify infestations and keep a record of any related damages. This record can be beneficial while filing a homeowner’s insurance claim for damage compensation. Moreover, some states require you to have a record of termite removal and structural repairs before selling the property.
Get in touch with us now to receive a complimentary estimate and plan your termite examination.
To learn more about termites in Florida, check out our blog “Termites in Florida: The Complete Guide to Identification and Control”.
