There are about 15 species of subterranean termites and are likely the worst pest a homeowner can encounter. These tiny creatures, can cause significant damage to the structure of your home without being detected until it's too late. While termite damage can be hidden from sight, understanding how to spot the early signs of an infestation and knowing what to do about it, can save you from costly repairs and potential structural failure. In this article, we will explore how to detect hidden termite damage, the warning signs to watch out for, and the best steps to take if you suspect your home is under attack.
In their defence, termites also play a prominent roll in the recycling of plant nutrients through the disintegration and decomposition of dead wood and plant debris. Their excavations after the structure of trees have become a necessary part of the habitat of many vertabrate species including bats, birds, reptiles and arboreal mammals.
Natural enemies
The most important natural enemies of termites are predators of various kinds, especially ants. Winged reproductives emerging on their colonising flight are eaten in large numbers by lizards, snakes, frogs, insectivorous and omnivorous birds, ants and other predatory insects, especially dragonflies. Workers and soldiers of a wide range of species form an important part of the diet of the echidna Tachyglossus aculeatus, which has strong, long-
clawed feet with which it damages mounds and subterranean galleries.
Why Hidden Termite Damage is Hard to Identify
Termites are adept at staying out of sight. They typically work in the dark, tunnelling through wood and other materials within walls, floors, and ceilings. Their ability to hide their activities behind walls or beneath flooring makes detecting an infestation early quite difficult. Furthermore, termites often eat wood from the inside out, leaving outer surfaces intact and creating the illusion that the timber is unaffected. This form of damage is known as hidden termite damage.

By the time you notice visible signs of termite activity, the infestation could already be well-established, and the damage may be significant. Therefore, knowing how to identify the more subtle signs of hidden termite damage early is imperative for preventing major harm.
Spot the Common Signs of Hidden Termite Damage Early
Hollow-Sounding Timber: One of the most common indicators of termite activity is timber that sounds hollow when tapped. Since termites eat wood from the inside out, timber that has been damaged will often produce a dull, hollow sound when knocked on. This could be particularly noticeable in areas like skirting boards, door frames, or wooden beams. If you suspect hidden termite damage, use a hammer or screwdriver to tap on timber surfaces to listen for this hollow sound.
Mud Tubes or Trails: Subterranean termites, which are the most common species in Australia, build mud tubes to travel between their colony and food sources, especially when they need to protect themselves from the open air. These mud tunnels can be found along walls, under foundations or around the base of timber posts. These tubes are about the width of a pencil and are often a clear sign of subterranean termite activity. Even if the termites are not visible, the presence of mud tubes should be taken seriously.
Discoloured or Warped Timber: While termites may not always leave visible holes in timber, they can cause noticeable changes in the appearance of the wood. You may notice that wooden floors, walls, or ceiling panels appear discoloured, warped, or buckled. This can occur as a result of moisture from termites which often creates damp spots on timber as they eat and tunnel through it. These warps and discolourations are often an indication of hidden damage.
Cracked or Blistered Paint: If you notice cracks or blisters on painted surfaces, it could be a sign of termite activity underneath the paint. Termites can cause timber to swell or shift as they tunnel through it, leading to the paint surface cracking or bubbling. This damage can sometimes be subtle, but it’s an indication that something might be going on beneath the surface.
Sawdust or Wood Shavings: Termites don’t just consume timber; they also produce wood shavings, which can accumulate near damaged areas. You may notice small piles of sawdust or wood fragments near timber in areas like floorboards, skirting, or wooden structures. This could be a sign that termites are actively feeding on the wood and breaking it down.
Swarming Termites can be a sign of hidden termite damage. Swarming occurs when reproductive termites (alates) leave their colony to mate and establish new colonies. If you notice a swarm indoors or near your home, it may indicate the presence of an established termite colony, potentially causing unseen damage within your property. Addressing a swarm promptly is essential to assess and mitigate any existing damage.
Steps to Take If You suspect Termite Damage
If you suspect termite activity, it's best not to disturb them before calling professionals, because termites can sense disturbances and may relocate or hide, making it harder for professionals to locate the entire colony. Similarly, partial treatments can worsen the problem as DIY attempts, or disturbing the area, may eraticate visible termites but leave the rest of the colony intact, allowing them to spread or continue causing damage unnoticed. Finally, termite specialists must assess undisturbed activity to identify the species, locate the colony and determine the most effective treatment plan.
Conduct a Thorough Inspection: If you suspect termite damage, the first step is to conduct a thorough inspection of your home. While some signs, such as mud tubes or hollow-sounding timber, are easy to spot, other signs may require a closer look. Inspect areas around windows, door frames, skirting boards, and timber beams, as well as under the house or in the attic. Pay particular attention to any wood that feels soft, cracked, or warped.
Call in a Professional: If you find any signs of termite activity, it’s essential to contact a pest control professional who can conduct a comprehensive termite inspection. Termite professionals use specialised tools, such as moisture meters, thermal cameras and bait stations, to detect hidden infestations that may not be visible to the untrained eye. Professional inspectors can also help identify the type of termite causing the damage to inform the appropriate treatment method.
Consider Termite Treatment Options: Once a termite infestation is confirmed, a professional pest control service will recommend a treatment plan. The two main types of termite treatments are:
Chemical Treatments: These involve applying liquid or foam insecticides to the soil around your home to create a barrier that prevents termites from entering. This method can affect non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, plants and animals and potentially contaminate nearby soil and water sources.
Baiting Systems: Baiting stations are considered more eco-friendly than using barriers for several key reasons. The differences mainly revolve around the environmental impact, targeted approach and reduced chemical usage. Bait containing termite attractants are placed around the property. Termites consume the bait and carry it back to the colony, effectively eliminating the entire nest. Since only the termites are affected, the surrounding environment remains undisturbed.
Repair and Restore: After the termites have been eradicated, it’s time to address the damage. Depending on the severity of the infestation, you may need to replace or repair timber that has been weakened or structurally compromised. In some cases, extensive damage may require professional restoration to ensure the integrity of your home is maintained.
Prevent Future Infestations: Prevention is key when it comes to termites. Once an infestation has been treated, take proactive measures to avoid future problems:
Keep timber and firewood away from the foundation of your home.
Seal any cracks or gaps in the exterior of your home, especially around pipes and windows.
Maintain proper drainage and ensure water does not accumulate near the building's foundation.
Schedule regular termite inspections to detect potential problems early.


Conclusion
Hidden termite damage can be difficult to spot, but by learning how to recognise the subtle signs, you can take action early and minimise the risk of significant structural damage. If you suspect termites in your home, it’s important to act quickly by conducting an inspection, calling in professionals, and taking the necessary steps to treat the infestation. By staying vigilant and investing in prevention, you can protect your home from these destructive pests and maintain its structural integrity for years to come.
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