10 Signs Eastern Cape Home Has a Termite Infestation

When it comes to pests in the Eastern Cape, few are as destructive as termites. These silent invaders can cause thousands of rands in damage before homeowners even realise there’s a problem. At ASC Pest Control, we’ve seen how quickly a small colony can turn into a major infestation — and we want to help you spot the warning signs early.

Here are 10 signs your Eastern Cape home may have a termite problem:

1. Hollow-Sounding Wood

Tap on wooden beams, skirting boards, or furniture. If it sounds hollow or papery, termites may have eaten the inside, leaving only a thin outer shell.

2. Mud Tubes on Walls or Foundations

Termites build thin, brown mud tunnels to travel safely between their colony and your home. These are usually found along walls, foundations, or even in your garden near the house.

3. Swarming Termites (Flying Ant-Like Insects)

In warmer months in the Eastern Cape, termites swarm to start new colonies. If you notice flying insects that look like ants with wings — especially near windows or lights — you could be dealing with termites.

4. Discarded Wings

After swarming, termites shed their wings. Small piles of identical wings on windowsills, floors, or around door frames are a clear sign of an infestation.

5. Sagging Floors or Doors That Don’t Close Properly

As termites eat through timber, they weaken structural integrity. Floors may sag, or doors and windows may suddenly become difficult to open or close.

6. Frass (Termite Droppings)

Drywood termites leave behind droppings that look like small wood-coloured pellets. If you spot piles of these, especially around skirting boards, it’s time to call ASC Pest Control.

7. Peeling Paint or Wallpaper

Termites produce moisture as they feed, which can cause paint or wallpaper to bubble, peel, or blister. Many homeowners mistake this for water damage.

8. Damaged Furniture or Wooden Items

It’s not just your home’s structure at risk. Termites also attack wooden furniture, cupboards, and even picture frames.

9. Unexplained Clicking Noises

Believe it or not, termites make noise. When disturbed, soldier termites bang their heads against wood to signal danger. If you hear faint clicking or rustling in your walls, it could be termites at work.

10. Visible Termites

Although termites prefer to stay hidden, sometimes you’ll see them. They’re pale, soft-bodied, and look very different from ants. If you spot even one, there’s likely a colony nearby.

Why Termite Infestations Are Serious in Eastern Cape

The Eastern Cape’s climate — warm summers, seasonal rains, and mild winters — is perfect for termites. Left untreated, an infestation can:

Weaken wooden structures and compromise your home’s safety
Reduce property value
Lead to costly repairs (insurance often doesn’t cover termite damage)

That’s why spotting these signs early — and acting fast — is critical.

What to Do if You Spot Termite Signs

If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, don’t panic — but don’t wait either. Termites work 24/7, and delays only give them more time to spread.

Here’s what you should do:

Don’t disturb the area — this can cause termites to move deeper into your home.
Take photos of the damage or signs (mud tubes, wings, droppings).
Call ASC Pest Control — we’ll carry out a full inspection and provide a safe, effective treatment plan.

Why Choose ASC Pest Control in Eastern Cape?

Local expertise — We know the exact termite species common in the Eastern Cape.
Safe methods — Our treatments are effective while keeping your family and pets safe.
Guaranteed service — If termites return, so do we.
Trusted by locals — ASC Pest Control has helped protect homes across Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), East London, Uitenhage, and beyond.

Take Action Today

Termites won’t wait — and neither should you. If you’ve seen any of these 10 signs, contact ASC Pest Control for a professional termite inspection.

Call us today for fast, reliable pest control in the Eastern Cape.

Phone us on – 041 004 0037

or fill in our contact form to speak to a consultant directly