Top 7 Signs of Termite Damage Every Homeowner Should Watch For

Termites are more than just a nuisance—they can silently cause thousands of dollars in structural damage before you even realize there's a problem. At BearHome Service, we often uncover termite damage during repair and renovation projects across the Lowcountry. Recognizing the early signs can help you act fast and avoid more costly repairs down the road. Here are the top 5–7 signs of termite damage every homeowner should know:

1. Hollow-Sounding Wood

Tap on wooden surfaces like baseboards, window frames, or floorboards. If they sound hollow or papery, termites may have eaten away the inside while leaving the surface intact.

2. Mud Tubes Along Walls or Foundations

Subterranean termites build small mud tunnels—about the width of a pencil—to protect themselves while they travel between their colony and food sources. These tubes are commonly found along foundations, crawl space walls, or even in your garage.

3. Buckling or Warped Wood and Floors

As termites feed on wood, the moisture they introduce can cause floors to warp or appear blistered, similar to water damage. Uneven floors and sticking doors or windows may also be a sign of hidden termite activity.

4. Frass (Termite Droppings)

Drywood termites leave behind small, pellet-shaped droppings called frass. These can accumulate near infested wood, resembling sawdust or coffee grounds.

5. Discarded Wings

Termite swarmers (reproductive termites) take flight during warm months to start new colonies. You may find small piles of discarded wings near windowsills, doors, or light fixtures—one of the first signs of an active infestation.

6. Visible Tunnels in Wood

If you break open damaged wood and see intricate galleries or tunnels inside, it's a telltale sign of a termite infestation. These tunnels may be filled with soil or frass, depending on the species.

7. Bubbling or Peeling Paint

Moisture from termite activity can mimic the signs of water damage, like peeling paint or blistering wallpaper. If there's no apparent water leak, it might be time to investigate further.

Don’t Wait—Get a Professional Inspection

If you've noticed any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly. At BearHome Service, we work closely with homeowners and pest control professionals to identify termite damage and complete all necessary repairs—including CL-100 and repair addendum work. We proudly serve Charleston and the surrounding areas, offering free estimates and dependable craftsmanship.

Have a concern about termite damage? Contact BearHome Service today for an expert evaluation and repair plan tailored to your home’s needs.