What are some common signs of a termite infestation?

Hollow-sounding wood and the presence of mud tubes are definitive indicators of a termite infestation. Termites, particularly subterranean varieties, create mud tubes as a protective passageway from their underground nests to their food sources, typically wood. When wood has been compromised by termite feeding, it often has a hollow sound when tapped, as the insects consume the inner structure of the wood, leaving the outer shell intact. These signs are critical for identifying an active termite problem because they reveal both the presence of the pests and their method of travel and feeding.

The other options do not specifically point to termite activity. Fresh paint on walls might be an attempt to conceal damage but does not indicate an infestation itself. Creaking floors can result from various issues in a home and are not exclusive to termite damage. Visible pipes in basements are typical structural components and do not provide evidence of termites. Understanding these signs is essential for timely intervention and effective termite management.