Termites are well-known for causing damage to homes. These insects feed on cellulose, which is the main structural component of wood. They can cause significant damage to a home by eating away at the foundation and wooden structures, such as flooring and walls. Termites can also cause other types of damage that may not be as obvious as holes in a wall or squeaky floors. Termite damage to your home can occur in a variety of ways. Here are five common damages termites can cause to your home:
1. Foundation Damage
Foundation damage is the most obvious and costly type of termite damage in a home. The foundation is the main support system for all homes, so it's extremely important that it be preserved and protected from termite damage. Termites will eat away at the foundation, compromising its integrity and making it weaker over time. If you discover evidence of termite damage on your foundation, seek help from a reputable pest control company immediately to stop further destruction and repair any existing damage.
2. Damage to Windows and Doors
Termites often work their way into a home through windows and doors that are made of wood. They're especially attracted to window frames, but they may also go after the door frame if they can get access to it. Overtime, termites may eat away at your window or door frames enough that they become weak and cause problems with closing or opening them properly. You may also notice that your windows aren't sealing properly anymore due to a damaged frame. If you don't treat termite damage right away, you may need to replace these items altogether to restore their functionality.
3. Damage to the Walls
Termites eat wood slowly, so it can take them up to several years before they get through an entire wall. They start eating the inside, which is why you often don't notice the damage before it's too late. Once they have eaten through the wall, you will see little holes in your walls or notice that there is paint peeling off. If you notice these signs, you should call a termite control specialist immediately before more damage is done to your walls.
4. Carpet Infestation
A carpet infestation is one of the most common signs that you have termites in your house. The padding on a carpet is usually made from cellulose, which attracts termites and provides them with a food source. You will notice that there are small pellets on your carpet or maybe even in your bed if you have carpets there as well. These pellets will look like sawdust, but they are not actually sawdust; they are just the remains of what the termites have eaten, so this is definitely not something you want on your carp
5. Damage to Furniture
Termites also love eating through furniture in your home like chairs and tables. They tend to target furniture with a lot of wood in them like dressers and chests of drawers, so be sure to check those areas for any signs of termite damage as well. If you notice your furniture is starting to look worn down and less attractive, it could be due to termite damage. Have all your furniture inspected by a professional exterminator, who will be able to spot any signs of termite infestation.
Conclusion
Termites are a serious threat to any home, with the ability to cause thousands of dollars in damages if left unchecked. Termite infestations can result in both immediate damages that need to be repaired and long-term structural damage to your home.
If you think you might have termites, I would recommend getting a hold of a company like North Fulton Pest Solutions quickly.
