One of the biggest signs of termites is seeing exit holes, also known as kick-out holes. When drywood termites swarm in the spring or summer here in Wisconsin, they will leave their nest. In doing so, they bore through wood and leave behind tiny, round holes. The issue with spotting these holes is that many other wood-destroying insects leave behind similar signs of their activity. Because kick-out holes are such a major sign of termite activity, it’s crucial to learn how to spot termite exit holes on your own or with the help of a professional termite exterminator.  The team at Batzner Pest Control is here to share their top tips for spotting termite exit holes.

What Types of Termites Create Kick-Out Holes?

While most species exhibit swarming behavior, drywood termites are the most common termite responsible for creating kick-out holes. This is because drywood termites live in dry wood above ground and do not need contact with soil as subterranean termites do. Subterranean termites are known to swarm as well, but they leave their nests in a different manner. True to their name, subterranean termites build nests underground and travel through mud tubes. These mud tubes also serve the purpose of being their exit from the nest. Seeing holes on a wooden structure, then, is almost always indicative of drywood termite.

Identifying Termite Exit Holes

Professional termite exterminators are required to identify termite holes in your property. That said, there are a few indicators that the holes in your wood were caused by termites: 

• Termite exit holes are round and no bigger than ⅛ of an inch.
• After the swarmer termites leave the nest, the termite nymphs within the nest will use a paste made out of frass to plug the holes.
• It is rare to see uncovered termite holes, as the nymphs work quickly after the swarmers leave the nest.
• Wood that has been kicked out looks like tiny mustard seeds that often pile up.

Can Other Insects Leave Holes in Wood?

Termites are not the only insect to tunnel through wood. In fact, many other insects are capable of leaving behind similar-looking holes in wood. Needless to say, this makes it difficult to know whether you’re dealing with termites or something else entirely. A few of the most common wood-boring insects here in Wisconsin include carpenter bees, carpenter ants, powderpost beetles, bark beetles, and more. Because their activity is so easily confused with that of termites, it’s best to enlist the help of a professional termite exterminator to identify termite exit holes.

Termite Exit Hole Inspections in Wisconsin

It can be distressing to discover a bunch of tiny, round holes in any wooden structure inside or outside of your home. If you suspect termite activity, it’s time to contact an expert. To learn more, contact us today!