Termites usually are cryptic, meaning that they don't come out into the open making them difficult to detect. They are often called the "silent destroyer" because they may be secretly hiding and thriving in your home or yard without any immediate signs of damage. Even when they are visible within the home as flying insects, termites can often be mistaken for ants.
Termites primarily feed on cellulose, a part of wood, but also damage paper, books, insulation, and even swimming pool liners and filtration systems. All termites feed on detritus (dead plants and trees as well as dead parts of living trees, including wood). Unfortunately, all homes, regardless of their construction type, can provide cellulose food for termite infestation. House foundations, furniture, shelves and even books are all possible feeding sites for termites.
The exterior of your home can provide clues as to how termites have entered your home if you suspect an infestation. Because termites often seek moist areas, plumbing structures outside your home are a great place to start; look for cracks and crevices nearby and any kind of damage.