What are the signs that I have termites?

Deborah Scelfo
by Deborah Scelfo

I have noticed holes in the wood in my garage and I am wondering if this is from termites. What signs should I look out for to determine if I have termites? Does anyone know how to get rid of termites naturally?


  4 answers
  • Darla Darla on Mar 30, 2015

    Look online at termite tunnels to see what they look like.

  • Hope Williams Hope Williams on Mar 31, 2015

    Look for their telltale little feces collections. They Look like little black granules of sand.

  • Shedog Shedog on Dec 15, 2017

    The biggest problem with termites is you don't know they are there until the damage is done. The best thing you can do is call a professional and get the structure inspected. If termites are found they will need to be eliminated prior to repairs being made.

  • Most yards contain thousands of these insects. If you're wondering if you have a concern with them getting into the house use a little trick to find them. Purchase a 1x2 fir wood strip at the local lumber yard. Then cut this into 12-inch stakes. Hammer each stake into the ground about four feet apart about four inches away from the foundation of the home. Hammer them in about two-thirds and leave them for about a month. After a month come back and pull the wood stakes out and look for insects or damage. If the termites are active near the house then you need to treat them. If the sticks come out just dirty, place them back into the ground and leave them for another month. Check monthly until the freeze of winter comes. Then start again in the spring. An active termite nest will find the wood quickly if they are near enough to the house to access it and do damage to it. Of course, if you are really concerned have a professional come in and do an inspection As far as treatment unless you have active termites do not treat. You are only wasting your money. Wait until you have activity.