What Does Termite Damage Look Like In Virginia Homes?

12/17/2021

Termites   

Termites are probably one of the worst pests you could find in your Virginia home. While other pest species such as rodents can also do damage to property, termites are nearly unparalleled in the type and extent of destruction that they can inflict. They can cost property owners an average of 3,000 dollars in repairs, but the exact number can be much higher, especially if the infestation has been around for a long time.

This is because termites will eat through wood 24/7. They can destroy everything from flooring to drywall to structural beams. They are able to consume the fibers inside of wooden structures, and their colonies can grow quickly.

Since termites are so troublesome, knowing how to identify and prevent termite infestations is key. In this guide, you’ll learn all you need to know about termite damage and how to keep it at bay.

What Do Termites Look Like?

Termites look different depending on their role in the caste system of their colonies. Termite swarmers are the only ones to leave the nest as they are responsible for reproduction. This means you’re more likely to see them than the others. They have wings and are dark brown to black. Unlike the swarmers, the worker and soldier termites do not have wings. They are also much lighter in color and are cream to white.

Five Signs Of Termite Damage

One of the reasons termites can be so destructive is because they are often difficult to spot. They usually live inside of walls and other areas that people don’t usually see. Most of the signs of termites don’t show up until some havoc has occurred already.

Nevertheless, it’s still important to know the main indicators of termite activity.

1. Tight-fitting doors and windows
2. Soft-clicking noises coming from the inside of walls
3. Small, pinpoint holes in walls and drywall, often accompanied by piles of tiny wood shavings known as “frass”
4. Floorboards that start to squeak or buckle
5. Water damage around walls when there doesn’t seem to be any water around

Five Termite Prevention Tips

If you’ve looked around your home and don’t see any indicators of termite damage, you should take steps to prevent them. The best way by far to protect from termite damage is to get annual inspections from home pest control experts, but there are also some things you can do on your own to deter these pests, such as:

1. Removing any water damaged wood from around the property
2. Installing a barrier between the soil and the home’s foundation
3. Replacing weather stripping and loose mortar around walls and the foundation
4. Diverting water from the building using gutters
5. Reducing humidity around the property using dehumidifiers and fixing leaky faucets

How To Remove Termite Infestations

But, if you’re noticing signs of termites around your Virginia home already, the best way to remove them and avoid damage is to contact the professionals at American Pest right away. Termites can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage, and the most affordable way to handle them is with our termite control plans.

To find out more, give us a call today to request a quote or book an inspection.