Main Damage Produced By Subterranean Termites

The truth is that these small insects are the cause of many problems in structures and worst of all, it can take a long time to find out what problems we face because they work inside the wood.

Signs Of A Termite Infestation

Regarding the usual characteristics of an infestation, we highlight the raised or sunken ceilings, dust similar to the appearance of sawdust, piles of wings similar to fish scales among others. Subterranean termites attack both old and new wood and are capable of traversing any type of texture material similar to plaster or plasterboard.

Prevention Is Key To Minimize The Damage

These damages can easily be prevented by regular inspections and treatments. Specialist technicians can help examine and analyze your property in detail, delivering a report showing the current damages, causes, and consequences, as well as a preventive analysis for possible termite attacks and how to avoid them.

By applying these measures at the right time, we will avoid the damage and increase the repair cost that may arise. Therefore, it is very important that you remain alert with all your senses to detect the presence of termites.

Can Subterranean Termites Attack A House?

Subterranean termites are social insects that feed on cellulose. Wood is the main source of cellulose for termites. Any element made of this material is susceptible to be attacked by termites, including structural and support elements such as beams, sleepers where the beams and the door and window loaders are supported.

Despite its lightness, wood can have the load capacity of structural steel. The most resistant woods are those that have a higher density. When termites attack load elements, such as beams or sleepers, their load capacity is reduced due to the decrease in their density. The houses in which their support structure is formed by wooden elements damaged by the effect of termites can collapse at any time.

The main problem with termite attack in homes is that it often goes unnoticed for a long time until the structural damage is severe. For example, in the case of wooden beams located in the foundations or underground of houses, the attack, especially by subterranean termites, may go unnoticed for a long time because they are inaccessible areas or in which the owners do not usually spend too much time.

By the time the problem is detected, the structural damage can become so severe that beams and other structural elements must be replaced. This entails a great effort of demolition, and in most cases, a great economic effort. In the case of detection in time, a termite attack on structural elements can be corrected with an effective treatment of elimination and control of the pest without the need to make changes in the damaged structures, which undoubtedly reduces its economic cost.

The early detection of a subterranean termite infestation can be successfully carried out if the signs of activity of these insects in the wood are correctly identified. For this reason, it is advisable to carry out periodic reviews by a company specialized in pest control that guarantees the safety of this type of housing in the event of possible termite attacks.

How Can I Detect the Presence of Subterranean Termites?

• Swarms of winged individuals appear in spring
• The presence of mud tubes on walls or beams is detected
• Arise ripples in the paint covering wooden elements
• The existence of termites is discovered

Put Your Senses On Alert

The colonies of termites can be formed by millions of individuals and cause damage to wooden structures and homes, causing serious damage and costly repairs. Timely detection of the presence of these insects on your property is essential to reduce the damage caused by termites.

• Open your eyes and pay close attention. Inspect the elements with cellulose content (wood, cardboard, agglomerate) of your home that is in contact with the floor or walls. If you detect any activity, do not forget to collect a sample of the insect so that an expert can identify it correctly.
• Are there lots of dirt or mud? Examine the earth or mud tubes and check what insects are inside. Do not forget the sample. This can be a great help for a specialized technician.
• Look for stalactites. Termites build mud tunnels or chimneys in the form of stalactites that sometimes hang from beams or ceilings.
• Hit the wood. Take a hammer or a screwdriver and check the carpentry of your home. If the wood produces a hollow sound or it breaks easily, it is very likely that the termites are causing considerable damage to your property.
• Look through the window. It is not about observing the beautiful views it offers. Take a look at windows and doors, any ripple in the paint can become a clear symptom of termite infestation.

Detecting Termites On Time Will Save You Money

Take these precautions annually and detect the termites in your home, the savings are in your senses. By doing inspections every year, you make sure that any termite infestation is not out of control.