Early Warning Signs of Termites Often Missed

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Most homeowners associate termites with spring swarmers, but by the time winged termites appear, an infestation is often well established. In Texas, where termites remain active year-round, the earliest signs of termite activity frequently go unnoticed until visible damage or swarming occurs.

Knowing what to look for before swarm season can help homeowners catch problems earlier—when options are broader and damage is often more limited.

Subterranean termites feed on wood from the inside out. They avoid light and open air, which allows them to remain hidden behind walls, beneath flooring, or inside structural framing. Because of this, early activity rarely looks dramatic.

Instead, the warning signs are subtle.

Mud tubes
One of the most common early indicators of subterranean termites is the presence of thin, muddy tubes along foundation walls, crawl spaces, or inside garages. These tubes protect termites as they travel between soil and wood.

Wood that sounds hollow
Wood damaged by termites may look intact on the surface but sound hollow when tapped. This can occur in baseboards, door frames, or window trim.

Minor blistering or bubbling
Painted surfaces may show slight bubbling or blistering where termites are feeding just beneath the surface. These signs are often mistaken for moisture damage.

Sticking doors or windows
As termites damage wood and introduce moisture, frames may warp slightly. Doors or windows that suddenly stick without an obvious cause can sometimes be an early clue.

Discarded wings (before full swarms)
Occasionally, homeowners find a small number of shed wings before noticing full swarming activity. This can indicate nearby reproductive termites testing conditions.

Many early termite indicators resemble normal home issues—minor wear, seasonal shifting, or moisture-related changes. Without swarmers present, termites are rarely the first thing people suspect.

This is why termite activity often continues quietly until spring, when swarmers draw attention to a problem that’s been developing for months.

Catching termite activity before swarm season allows homeowners to:

• Address issues before colonies expand further
• Avoid reacting under pressure during peak season
• Make more informed decisions about protection and treatment

Spring swarms don’t start termite problems—they expose them.

If you wait to look for termites until you see swarmers, you’re already behind. Paying attention to subtle signs—especially in late winter and early spring—can make a significant difference in protecting your home.

Understanding what termites leave behind is often the first step toward preventing more serious damage later.