Termite Damage: How Much Destruction Does an Infestation Cause?
Termite infestations, when left untreated, have potentially devastating effects on your property. These pests are notorious for causing structural damage by eating away at the wood within your home. The destruction they cause can be so severe that it causes walls and ceilings to collapse. Termite terror doesn’t end there. Read on for more information about termite damage.
The Staggering Stats
- Yearly damage: the numbers vary, but it is estimated that termites are responsible for a whopping $5 to $30 billion to structures in the U.S. alone.
- Repair costs: it’s estimated that it costs homeowners at least $3,000 to repair termite damage.
- Amount of wood consumed: some termite colonies can devour up to 1 lb of wood per day. Most types of termites consume about twice their body weight per day.
Structural Damage
Because termite infestations go unnoticed for months (or even years in many cases), the damage is usually extensive by the time termite activity is discovered. That means that termites have been feasting on the inside, unseen wood within the walls of your home or office building. Because termite damage varies, the destruction they cause is dependent on a few factors:
- Termite breed
- Size of the termites
- Population of the termite colony
- The amount of moisture available
Beyond Structural Damage
Termite damage often extends to other aspects of a structure. The excess moisture termites that create behind walls result in a bubbling and blistering that resembles water damage in appearance. Their fecal waste, known as “frass,” leaves an unpleasant odor that lingers in the air and penetrates the walls. Frass also causes stains and discoloration on walls. Unfortunately, sometimes the only way to remove these stains and odors is to knock down the walls and rebuild them.
Stop Termite Damage Before it Starts
The pest professionals at Green Pest Solutions are trained to recognize the very first signs of a termite infestation. Let us inspect your property to prevent serious termite damage. We can also apply regular treatments to prevent termites from becoming a problem. If you suspect termite activity in your home, contact us today online or by calling us at 855-517-0541.