I found these weird dirt tunnels running up the support beams in my basement. I poked one and it crumbled, but it looks like they go all the way to the subfloor. Is this serious?

termite activity, such as hollow-sounding wood, blistering, or visible mazes within the wood structure. Tap on the wood with a screwdriver or similar tool to check for hollowness.

Inspect areas around the foundation, support beams, joists, and subfloor for any signs of weakness or damage. If you suspect extensive damage, it may be necessary to remove sections of drywall or flooring to gain a clearer view of the underlying structures. Professional pest inspectors often use specialized tools like moisture meters or infrared cameras to detect hidden termite damage.