They may be small, but termites can cause serious damage to your home. If you suspect you have termites in your home, seek help from a professional pest control company promptly. Ignoring the warning signs of a termite infestation can result in serious damage.

Why are termites harmful to your home?

Termites primarily feed on wood, but they will also consume other materials like particleboard, drywall, or cardboard. Unfortunately, these materials are found in practically every home. Because of this, you shouldn’t dismiss the risk of a termite infestation, even if you are extremely cautious and take precautionary measures. As long as the food source exists, your home is potentially at risk for termite damage.

What kind of damage do termites inflict?

Termite damage comes in the form of ruined plaster, drywall, joints, and even the very structure of your home. Termites are responsible for approximately $5 billion dollars in property damage each year, so it is important to know the warning signs and take preventive action so as to reduce your home’s risk of termite damage.

How can I identify termite damage?

There are several indicators of termite activity in your home. If you notice even one of the following, it’s wise to contact a pest control professional immediately. The sooner you address termite activity, the lower the chance of damage to your home. Here are signs of termites to be aware of:

Bubbling in floorboards
Hollow or damaged wood including walls, floorboards, and wooden structures
Abandoned termite wings (usually found near windows or doors)
Thin mud tunnels found in or outside your home
Termite droppings found near their tunneling

What can I do to prevent termite damage?

While there’s no way to make your home completely impervious to termites, you can take measures to reduce your home’s susceptibility to termite infestation and subsequent damage:

Reduce sources of moisture throughout your yard and home
Repair cracks in siding and foundation
Properly maintain your gutter system
Routinely inspect the interior and exterior of your home for signs of termites
Store firewood in a safe, secure place away from your home
Trim shrubs, trees, and brushes to prevent them from touching your house
Remove all rotting wood (trees, sheds, etc.) from your property

On top of these preventive actions, be sure to enlist the help of a professional pest control company if you suspect your home is suffering termite damage.

If you need professional pest control services in the greater Des Moines area, contact Springer Professional Home Services. Our team of pest control professionals can help you address your situation, treat the problem, and take preventive measures to reduce your risk of further infestation. Contact us to set up your free inspection!