Have you ever witnessed white ants? White ants also called termites can silently invade your home and cause extensive damage before you even realise they’re there. These tiny insects feed on wood and other organic materials, slowly compromising the structure of your house. They’re usually small, measuring between 1/8 to 1/4 inch in length, with colours ranging from white to light brown. However, they can be easy to miss because they avoid light and live in hidden areas, such as walls, wooden beams, or underground. They silently destroy wood and other cellulose-based materials in buildings, which can lead to severe structural damage over time. That’s why early detection is essential to preventing costly repairs and maintaining your home’s value. In today’s blog, we’ll tell you the common signs of white ant infestation and white ant treatment in Perth, so you can protect your home before things get out of hand.
Mud Tubes on Walls and Foundations
One of the clearest signs of a white ant infestation is the presence of mud tubes. White ants build these tubes to stay protected from predators and retain moisture while they travel. Mud tubes are often found on walls, foundations, and near areas with wood. If you spot thin, dirt-like lines on these surfaces, it could mean white ants are at work. Break a small section of the tube to check for live ants inside. However, even if you don’t see any, it’s best to call an ants pest control professional to inspect further.
Hollow-Sounding Wood
White ants eat wood from the inside out, so structural damage can go unnoticed until it’s serious. Tap on any wooden beams, furniture, or walls in your home. If they sound hollow, it could be a sign of white ant activity. Make sure to look out for areas that seem soft or weak, especially around floors, walls, and door frames. Spotting hollow or damaged wood early can prevent further harm.
Discarded Wings Near Entry Points
When white ants swarm, they shed their wings as they establish new colonies. You might find small, transparent wings near windows, doors, or other entry points. If you notice these tiny wings around your home, it’s a strong sign that white ants are nearby. Swarming usually happens in warmer weather, so keep an eye out for wings, especially after rain.
Tight or Hard-to-Open Windows and Doors
White ants tend to create moisture in the areas they infest, causing the wood to warp. If you notice windows or doors that suddenly become difficult to open or close, it could be due to white ant activity. Warping is a sign that the structural integrity of your wood is compromised. Also, don’t ignore these sticky windows or doors, as they could be early indicators of a hidden infestation.
Peeling or Bubbling Paint
Another subtle sign of white ant infestation is peeling or bubbling paint on your walls or ceilings. This happens because white ants create moisture within the wood, which then causes the paint to bubble or peel. If you notice this, especially in areas not affected by water leaks, consider a white ant inspection. Moisture issues can also cause mold, so it’s best to investigate as soon as possible.
Small Holes or Cracks in Drywall
White ants can make tiny holes in drywall as they move through walls in search of wood. These holes are often small and look like pinpricks, so they can be easily overlooked. Sometimes, you may also see cracks forming in the drywall as the damage progresses. Look for these telltale signs, especially around baseboards, windows, and doors.
Faint Rustling or Clicking Sounds in the Walls
Believe it or not, you can sometimes hear white ants at work. If you put your ear to the wall and hear faint clicking or rustling sounds, it could be the sound of white ants eating through wood. Soldier white ants make soft clicking sounds to communicate danger, while worker white ants make rustling noises as they chew through wood. While it might seem strange, listening to these sounds could help catch an infestation early.
Floor Damage: Uneven or Buckling Wood
White ants can cause damage to wooden floors, making them buckle or appear uneven. If you notice that certain parts of your floor are suddenly uneven, this could indicate that white ants are eating away at the wood below. Wooden floors that sound hollow or feel soft when stepped on are also a warning sign. Floor damage caused by white ants can become costly if not addressed promptly.
Damaged or Hollow-Looking Furniture
If you have wooden furniture in your home, it could also be a target for white ants. Check your wooden chairs, tables, and cabinets for any signs of damage, such as small holes or a hollow sound when tapped. Since white ants prefer dark, hidden areas, it’s a good idea to inspect the backs and undersides of furniture. If you notice any unusual damage, it’s time to consult an ant removal professional.
White ants can be a silent but dangerous threat to your home. Knowing the signs of a white ant infestation is the first step toward protecting your property. From mud tubes to hollow-sounding wood, each warning sign helps you to address the issue before it worsens. If you notice any of these indicators, consider scheduling a professional inspection. Acting early can save you from extensive damage and costly repairs, ensuring your home stays strong and secure.
Why Trust An Ant Control Professional?
Trusting an ant pest control professional ensures effective, long-term relief from infestations. These experts know how to identify specific ant species, including white ants (termites), and understand their behaviours, which is crucial for applying the right treatment. They use safe, advanced methods designed to be effective while protecting families, pets, and plants.
Professionals conduct thorough inspections to locate hidden nests and potential entry points, addressing the infestation fully rather than just visible signs. Although DIY treatments might seem cheaper, they’re often short-term fixes that don’t prevent ants from returning. Pest control specialists at Ants Pest Control Perth offer lasting solutions that save time and money, often with follow-up visits or warranties. Equipped with specialised tools, we can deliver a level of treatment that DIY methods rarely achieve, making our services the most reliable choice for ant control Perth. To get our white ant treatment Perth, call us at (08) 62444282 today.