Termite Damage On Wood What to Look for

A home that shows the first signs of termite damage may be suffering more than it shows on the surface. Termite infestation is a problem that plagues homes and businesses worldwide. Recognizing the early signs of termite damage on wood is essential to stopping these bugs and protecting the structure of your home. That is why it’s important that you know what to look for to understand what you’re up against.

How termites reach your home

Termites eat wood and cellulose-based products like cardboard and paper - the kind of materials that are generally found in your home. They find their way into your home generally through tunneling, which is what subterranean termites do. Termites can’t tolerate exposure to sunlight and open air. To protect themselves, they bore holes through the soil so they can start their exploration for food, which unfortunately, is found in your home.

If you find termites near your home or around the vicinity, that’s reason enough to perform an inspection. Chances are, they have explored your area and are on their way to your house, if not already doing damage.

Signs of termite damage on wood

Look for cracks on walls, window frames, door frames and floors. Look out for blistered area in these surfaces as well. The disturbance or deformations in the wood may be a sign that termites have started to gnaw underneath.

If termites have already begun inflicting damage on the wood, you will find tiny holes on the surface, tiny pellets of straw- or wood-colored droppings, wood shavings and other residues.

Wood and drywall that have been damaged by termites will also start sagging or crumbling. If the surface has been taken off, you’ll find a concave, hollow inner area in the wood that has been eaten away. You might also want to look for bubbled paint on the surface of the wood. If you touch this area, it will feel cool or damp.

Areas commonly used for entry by termites

Termites need only very tiny openings to get into your home. Some of the areas to inspect are wooden walls, slabs or lumber, brick veneer, expansion joints, foam insulation and similar materials that touch the soil. Look for termite damage on wood in these areas.

Since termites hide from sight, they will have entered your home from underground. However, they will leave telltale signs of entry. Look for mud tubes that are about a fourth to half an inch wide. These tubes usually run the length at the base of your home. These are used by termites to enter your home protected from air and sunlight.

Even when all is well…

A smooth surface in the home is not an accurate indication that there is no termite damage on wood. If the damage had been done, it will not be apparent immediately because termite activity is out of sight, concealed under the wood’s surface.

What to do when you spot termite damage on wood

Once you spot termite damage on wood, have your home inspected by a professional. A professional is trained to look for areas that termites might have damaged, especially those that you have missed. They are also equipped to determine whether termite damage on wood is extensive or not. Other than administer the right treatment to stop termites, they can also recommend important prevention tips to help you avoid the same problem in the future.