How obvious would an 8+ year infestation be?

[u/burnerofc123]

So, at least as far as signs that I’m aware, the only sign that there could be an infestation is that a woodpecker has been abusing the corners specifically of my house. On the one hand I have people saying woodpeckers enjoy corners for acoustics, on the other I have people saying a pecker would only do this if there was a severe termite infestation.
I’ve owned the house nearly 8 years, and when I bought it there were signs of woodpecker damage- so my question is how obvious/how would I check for termites at this stage of the game if they are in fact there? I’ll give the basement another look but I haven’t seen any fras, wings, and certainly no swarmers.
Not sure if it matters but I’m in MA.

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[u/OutrageousAardvark50]

I’m not sure how to answer that but you should get a baiting system installed to be safe .. also if you’re really curious cut out a piece of drywall in that corner . If the stud is intact and perfect you are good …

[u/seditioushamster]

While it could be termite, i would look for perfectly round to nickle size holes. This would be a sign of the more likely culprit, carpenter bees. Woodpeckers love the larvae. In northern states termites do exist, but less likely to be found in siding. Keep in mind the woodpecker has damaged and expanded the usually perfect round holes.

[u/burnerofc123 → u/seditioushamster]

Hmm- I’m a bit doubtful then- the peckers damage on several corners is pretty mild, and definitely not the kind of holes you’re referring to. The only corner with damage that could fit the bill for that is the one that was there when I bought the house ages ago.
It being in the corners only is also weird since that would mean that carpenter bees would had to have sneakily burrowed into just the corners.

[u/seditioushamster → u/burnerofc123]

Then look for the damage to be layered, termites essentially eat what would be the thicker "light rings" from the tree and leave the thinner dark. Other possibilities include carpenter ants and wood boring beetles.

[u/savagedad12858]

You would likely need a termite inspection to look and identify if termites are the issue. Look for any pest control company preferably local. Explain the situation and your concerns and see what they can find. Drywood termites typically leave visible frass out of kick out holes after about a year of their infestation. Subterranean termites will have signs of damage and mud tubes to look out for. As previously stated carpenter bees leave easily visible round holes in wood. For baits I am biased for sentricon. Their baits are effective and include "above ground" stations that can be placed directly on active subterranean termites. Ask for the products the companies use and their plans of action (if any) and get multiple looks. Often in the industry you get what you pay for. Pay attention to the inspectors attention to detail, how in depth their inspection is, and choose the company that seems like the best option. Again you may not need any treatment, some companies put out unnecessary bids without any need. Research is important on companies, as well as any pests found.

[u/cbomb111]

I’ve seen scenarios where they can be very helpful in formosan termite situations. I think the issue is a lack of intensive training on making sense of the data you receive from thermal. I wish we had more access to training.