Top 5 Signs Your Charleston Home May Have a Termite Infestation

Spotting Termite Trouble Before It’s Too Late

Charleston’s historic homes, coastal humidity, and wood-rich construction make it one of the Southeast’s most termite-prone cities. With Formosan and subterranean termites active from spring through fall, homeowners need to stay alert to avoid costly structural damage.

As your proactive partner in pest, Lookout Pest Control is here to help you recognize the early signs of a termite infestation—before it gets out of hand.

Why Early Detection Matters

Termites cost American homeowners over $5 billion in damages annually, according to PestWorld.org. In Charleston, homes in areas like Mt. Pleasant, West Ashley, and Summerville are especially at risk due to dense vegetation, older foundations, and frequent rainfall.

Catching an infestation early can save you from extensive repairs and prevent a full-blown structural crisis.

Top 5 Signs Your Charleston Home May Have a Termite Problem

1. Discarded Wings Near Doors and Windows

Winged termites, or swarmers, shed their wings after finding a place to nest. If you notice small, transparent wings around your windowsills or porch, you may have a colony forming nearby.

Local Tip: Swarming season in Charleston typically runs April through July, especially during warm, humid evenings.

2. Mud Tubes Along Walls or Foundation

Termites create thin mud tunnels to travel between their underground colony and their food source—your home. These pencil-width tubes are usually found along foundations, walls, or crawl spaces.

According to Clemson University, these tunnels help termites maintain moisture levels and avoid exposure to predators.

3. Hollow or Damaged Wood

Termites consume wood from the inside out, leaving it sounding hollow when tapped. Doors, baseboards, and flooring may start to buckle, sag, or splinter without obvious cause.

Pro Tip: Use the back of a screwdriver to gently tap exposed wood. A hollow or papery sound is a red flag.

4. Discoloration or Bubbling Paint

While this can resemble water damage, it’s often a result of termites feeding inside walls. As they hollow out the wood, moisture gets trapped beneath the surface, causing paint to bubble or peel.

5. Droppings or “Frass” Near Woodwork

Drywood termites leave behind wood-colored pellets (frass) that look like sawdust or coffee grounds. Piles of these near baseboards or window sills can be a sign of infestation, particularly in attics and dry framing.

Where to Check Around Your Charleston Home

• Crawl Spaces: High humidity creates the perfect nesting environment.

• Porch and Deck Posts: Especially those directly contacting the soil.

• Basements and Foundations: Look for mud tubes and moisture-damaged wood.

• Attics: Often overlooked but vulnerable to drywood termite species.

What To Do If You Spot These Signs

1. Don’t Disturb the Area: This can cause termites to retreat deeper into your home.

2. Document the Damage: Take photos or collect samples like wings or frass.

3. Call a Professional Immediately: Lookout Pest Control offers free termite evaluations in the Charleston area and can confirm the type and extent of the infestation.

Trust Lookout Pest Control for Expert Termite Detection

With over 40 years of experience, Lookout Pest Control is Charleston’s top choice for comprehensive termite protection. Our team uses the latest tools—including thermal imaging and moisture meters—to detect termite activity in hard-to-reach places.

Our Services Include:

• Detailed inspections with species identification

• Family-safe treatment solutions

• Formosan-specific termite bonds

• Follow-up monitoring and re-treatment guarantees

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

If you notice even one of these five warning signs, your home may already be under attack. Let Lookout Pest Control protect your biggest investment with proactive service and local expertise trusted by thousands of Charleston residents.

Call today to schedule your free inspection. We’re Always on the Lookout™ for your peace of mind.