Do Not Underestimate The Damage Termites Can Cause To A Home
Termites feed on an organic compound called cellulose, found primarily in wood, trees, and plants. Because termites prefer dark spaces, they favor the walls and foundations of our homes. As a result, termite infestations are costly for homeowners. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), termites affect more than 600,000 households annually, and American residents spend $5 billion on termite control and damage repairs. Not only do termites wreak havoc on our homes and wallets, but they also cause psychological concerns. The top reasons to not underestimate the damage termites can cause include:
Termites are silent destroyers
Termites chew through walls, flooring, wood, and more completely undetected. With more than 2,000 species of termites in the world, they continue to surprise us every year. Termites seek out habitats with moisture and damp or dying wood. They reproduce quickly, so a small number of termites can rapidly develop into thousands gnawing on the foundation of a home.
Subterranean termites are the most destructive
Subterranean termites live underground and cause the most damage to a home or property. From a home’s foundation to supports beams, plumbing, insulation, and flooring through a home, they cause thousands of dollars of damage over time. To prevent subterranean termites, ensure water drains away from the house and do not let water gather around the foundation. In addition, damp and damaged wood needs to be replaced to discourage subterranean termites.
The signs of termites might be minimal
It’s important to discover a termite infestation before it can damage your property. There are several common signs of a termite infestation that you should not overlook:
Small holes in the home’s drywall
Hollow wood on the structure
Unfamiliar droppings near entry points throughout the home
Piles of wings that have been shed from the termites coupling up
Mud tubes along the wall or foundation of the home
Maze-like patterns in the floors or walls
To prevent a termite infestation, seal cracks in the foundation and cover any wood that touches the soil with plastic sheets. A homeowner can also prevent an infestation by removing any damp or rotten wood from the premises and fixing leaks to prevent hidden moisture throughout the home. In addition, tree stumps in the yard should be ground out, and firewood should be stored in a dry area away from the foundation. Lastly, consider conducting an annual pest inspection to prevent a surprise visit from any termites or their friends.
Termites are a nuisance that no homeowner wants to experience. Protecting one’s home against termites and potentially expensive damage is critical. Fortunately, signs of termites are obvious and unique and can help you know what you’re dealing with early on. Since most termite situations require fumigation and preventative measures, do not hesitate to contact an experienced pest control company to help you eradicate your pest problem.
Get monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly, bi-annually, and seasonal pest control services across Phoenix Valley with Russell Pest Control. We offer environmentally-friendly pest control solutions for fleas and ticks, mosquitoes and flies, rodents, mice, and rats, and weed control. Our team has all required state licenses and stay updated with all industry advancements. Connect with us for more information.
