How to Check for Dampwood Termites

Dampwood termites are insects that are typically found in areas of the home that have been exposed to a high level of moisture caused by flooding, plumbing issues or ventilation problems. As their name implies, dampwood termites, to survive, require decaying or damaged wood that remains moist, and will quickly relocate to another moist area of the home once the wood dries out. Once discovered, an exterminator is recommended to eliminate the termites, and the damaged wood must be removed as soon a possible.

Instructions

- 1
  Check for plumbing leaks in your home. Wood exposed to leaks attracts the termites. The wood can also be affected by old gutters and areas with poor ventilation.
- 2
  Locate wood-to-soil contact around the outside of your home. Soil in humid climates is moist, which creates the ideal environment for dampwood termites to thrive. Wood siding on your home's exterior that touches soil or is consistently exposed to rain or sprinkler systems is susceptible to infestation.
- 3
  Look for clumps of fecal pellets. Dampwood termites leave behind fecal pellets that appear as misshapen clumps, or have the appearance of paste.
- 4
  Check for decaying or dead trees in your yard. Dampwood termites live in the dead tree, and are around 1 inch long. Visible damage is not usually apparent, and requires detection by a termite expert.

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