On average, it would take a single termite over 3,000 years to eat a 1,000 square foot home. Unfortunately, termites do not live in isolation. They live in colonies that can number into the millions, and multiple colonies can exist on a single property. They also work around the clock, so the damage can mount up quickly. In the U.S., termites account for approximately $5 billion in property damage each year, which is more than most natural disasters.
Why Are Termites so Destructive?
Termites do much of their work hidden from view. They typically find their way into your home around the foundation or basement and make their cozy nests within the woodwork. Once inside your home, they feed on anything containing cellulose ranging from wooden fixtures to books. By the time that you become aware that you have a termite infestation, the damage is usually quite substantial and can cost thousands to repair.
Signs of Termite Damage:
One of the first signs that you may have a termite problem is the presence of frass, which is termite fecal matter. Most homeowners first notice frass along a windowsill or in a dark corner. The tiny pellets look like a mixture of coffee grounds and sand and are oval with rounded ends and six concave sides. With subterranean termites, you may notice mud tubes on exterior walls and beams or in crawl spaces. In severe infestations, you may notice swarms of young termites as they fly from the original nest to form new colonies.
Signs that termites have compromised the structure of your home include:
- warped door frames and windowsills
- sagging ceilings that may resemble water damage
- wood that sounds hollow when tapped
- wood with evidence of carved tunnels
- tiny holes in wooden structures or fixtures
The key to limiting termite damage is to contact a professional pest control company at the first sign of an infestation. All-Pro Pest Control offers a full range of commercial and residential pest control services throughout Seattle and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to arrange a termite inspection for your home or business.
If you are experiencing termite problems, be sure to check out our service area and see if we can help. We serve multiple towns, including Auburn, Washington, so check us out and give us a call!
