If you even suspect you have a termite infestation, it's important to act quickly to prevent further damage to your property. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, termites cause billions of dollars of structural damage every year, with homeowners spending more than $2 billion to fix these problems. We've put together a list of five signs that may indicate it's time to call a local exterminator.

1. Check for Live Termites

Look for the presence of termite droppings, also known as frass, as they often appear as small, six-sided pellets. Have you noticed visible swarmers or reproductive termites in or around your home? If so, or if you've only seen frass, it's time to call a local exterminator.

2. Inspect Your Doors, Windows, and Walls

If you see discarded insect wings on windowsills or near doors, this could indicate termites are in your home. Other signs of termites include buckling or blistered paint on the walls or ceilings. Also, you'll want to check drywall or wood surfaces for small, pinpointed holes. Wooden walls or trim that sounds hollow when you tap it can indicate a termite infestation.

3. Check Your Flooring

If you have uneven or sunken floors, you may have termites. Be aware that termites eat wood from the inside out, so you may not see any obvious signs on the surface. However, you might see small holes in the floor. Tap the flooring and listen for a hollow sound. If you're unsure, be sure to call a local exterminator to confirm whether your flooring is deteriorating due to termites.

4. Look Underneath Your House

You'll want to thoroughly check any basements and crawl spaces for signs of infestation. Termites travel through mud tubes that they build to protect themselves from open air. Look for these tubes along walls, foundations, and upon support beams.

5. Use Your Nose — It Knows!

A persistent musty or earthy odor is often a sign of a long-established infestation. It's often caused by a specific type of fungus used by some termite species to break down wood and other materials for food. If you notice a musty smell, be aware that the odor is detected in areas where termites are active. The odor will be stronger if the infestation has been ongoing for an extended period of time.

Have you noticed any of these signs in or around your home? If you have, it's time to get a professional inspection to confirm if you have termites. A local exterminator can assess the extent of the infestation and provide services to rid your home of those unwelcome pests. Call Innovative Pest Solutions today to get your termite problem under control.