Does Your House Have a Termite Problem?

Though an individual termite is only a tiny insect, colonies of these wood-eating bugs can wreak havoc on a house. Pest management experts estimate that termites do some $5 billion in property damage annually. By recognizing the effects termites can have on the wood in your home, you can identify possible infestations before extensive repair work is required.

Hollowed-out Wood

While termites themselves are usually hidden underground or within walls, their effects can be observed on the wood they eat. Knock on wood to check for hollow spaces where termites may have tunneled. In addition to the beams in your house, also examine any wood piles or pieces in your backyard or basement.

Cracks and Fissures

As a piece of wood gets eaten from the inside out, it may start to crack or fissure. Any unexpected cracks should be checked. Dried mud or soil within cracks is another indicator of termite activity.

Buckling and Collapse

Termite destruction at some stages can resemble water damage, causing floors and ceilings to swell and windowsills and other boards to buckle. Wood riddled with too many termite tunnels may eventually crumble or completely collapse.

If the wood in your house appears possibly affected by termites, call in pest control experts to determine the extent of the problem. See this link for more about termite removal in Pinehurst.