How to tell if your Tucson home has a termite problem
In Tucson, we know what it means to protect our homes. With our long dry spells and bursts of monsoon moisture, it’s not unusual to be vigilant about things like weatherproofing and home security. But there’s one threat that often flies under the radar: termites.
These tiny wood-destroying insects are more than just a nuisance—they’re a silent risk to your home’s structure. What makes them tricky is how quietly they do their damage. By the time you notice the signs, the infestation may already be serious. That’s why it’s important to recognize the early red flags.
Signs that termites may be inside your Tucson property
- Mud tubes on your foundation or walls: Subterranean termites, the most common type in Southern Arizona, need moisture to survive. To maintain a safe path between their colony and a food source (usually wood), they build thin mud tubes along foundations, block walls, and crawlspaces. These tubes are about the width of a pencil and often stretch from the soil to siding or drywall.
- Doors and windows that stick: If you’re suddenly having trouble opening a window or shutting a door that used to work just fine, that could be your warning sign. Termites can damage the framing around these areas, causing them to swell or warp—especially after monsoon season when the air holds more moisture.
- Strange droppings (or frass): Drywood termites, which are less common than subterranean ones but still active in Tucson, push their droppings out of small holes in the wood they’re infesting. These droppings look like fine coffee grounds or pepper and tend to pile up near baseboards or window sills.
- Creaky or hollow-sounding floors: Yes, old wood floors are naturally squeaky—but if the creaking seems new or noticeably louder in certain areas, don’t rule out termites. As they chew through wood, they can weaken the flooring from underneath, leaving it hollow and unstable.
What to do if you notice termite activity
Spotting any of these signs doesn’t automatically mean you have a full-blown infestation, but it’s a good enough reason to have a professional take a look. Termites work quietly, and the sooner you act, the easier it is to stop the damage.
If you’re in Tucson and suspect termites might be inside your home, it’s smart to schedule an inspection. Catching them early can make a big difference—especially in our region where dry, warm conditions create the perfect environment for year-round activity.
Think you might have termites? We’re here to help you figure it out. Reach out to Green Home Pest Control for a termite inspection tailored to the unique conditions of Tucson homes. It’s better to know for sure than to wait and wonder.
