Recognizing termites early can help protect your home. Common signs include:

• Hollow-sounding wood: Tap wood surfaces; a hollow sound may mean termites are present.
• Mud tubes: Look for pencil-width tubes along walls or foundations—termites build these for travel.
• Discarded wings: Swarming termites shed wings, often found near windows or doors.
• Buckling paint or wood: Warped surfaces can be a clue, as termites increase moisture.

If you notice these signs, consider using termite detection products or consulting a pest professional.

Many termite sprays are made for both indoor and outdoor use, but it’s important to always check the product label for application instructions. Some formulas are designed for cracks, crevices, basements, or crawl spaces inside, while others target soil or wood outdoors. Always follow safety directions, use in ventilated areas, and avoid contact with food or pets. Using products as directed can help maximize their effectiveness for controlling termites in different parts of your property.

Different termite control methods address various needs:

• Foam: Expands to fill wall voids or hard-to-reach spots, treating active infestations directly.
• Stakes: Placed in soil around your home's perimeter to monitor and help eliminate termites before they reach your home.
• Liquid: Applied as a barrier to protect foundations or treat soil, either during an active problem or as a preventative measure.

Consider your property layout, infestation severity, and access points when choosing a method.

For best results, check detection stakes every two to three months, or as recommended on the product packaging. Regular monitoring helps you catch termite activity early and change stakes as needed. It's a good idea to set a reminder or mark your calendar so you don’t miss a check. If you notice termite activity or the indicator pops up, follow the package instructions for next steps to help address the infestation promptly.

Termite control products should always be used according to label directions for safety. Most products recommend keeping pets and children away from treated areas until the solution has dried or settled, depending on the formulation. Store all chemicals out of reach and don’t allow pets to play with detection stakes or treated surfaces. If you have concerns, choose products labeled as suitable for use around homes with pets and follow all package precautions.