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Mud tubes on the foundation?

Pencil-wide mud tubes running up a foundation wall, pier or pipe are made by subterranean termites. They're the clearest outside sign of termites.

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Most likely

Termites

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This spreads or does harm quickly. The sooner a pro sees it, the smaller the job.

How to tell

  • Brown tubes about the width of a pencil climbing from the soil.
  • Break one open: live tubes have small cream-colored insects.
  • Often in crawl spaces, garages or behind steps.

Do this now

  • Take photos of each tube and where it is.
  • Leave the tubes in place for the inspector.
  • Keep mulch and soil a few inches below siding.

Avoid

  • Don't spray the tubes; termites just move and you lose the trail.
When to call a proCall for a termite inspection now. Termites work quietly and damage adds up.
Call (855) 424-9709

Safety first

While you sort it out

  1. Keep kids and pets away from nests, droppings and bait.
  2. Don't spray a nest or set off foggers.
  3. Wear gloves to clean droppings; never sweep them dry.
  4. Sting with trouble breathing? Call 911 first.
Call (855) 424-9709

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Know what it is? Or still not sure?

Either way, a pest pro can help.

One call connects you with an independent local pest control company for mice and rats, bed bugs, roaches, termites, ants, wasps and more.

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