Do Termites Damage Sheetrock?
Termites love to eat the paper covering the drywall board. This creates a hollow between the painted wall surface and the gypsum underneath. This is the termite’s way of feeding the colony.
The cellulose found in the paper is a prime target for the termite. It is a soft white carbohydrate found in plant-based materials, such as tree trunks. The cellulose is a good source of adhesives.
Termite swarmers are winged reproductives of the termite. They swarm in the late summer. Their wings are usually discarded, but some have wings that are equipped to carry out a task.
In addition to flying, they are also able to construct tunnels in wood. These oblong tubes provide shelter and protect the workers from ants and other predators. These tubes are often four to five inches high, open at the end and light in color.
Subterranean termites are the most common type of termite in the United States. They live beneath loose soil and travel through wood. They can make very large colonies.
There are several signs to watch out for when determining whether your home is infested with termites. Among them are small pinholes in the drywall, dry powder dust near the wall and tiny holes in the wall.
If you see these signs, you may have a termite infestation. You should remove any loose paper from the walls and tarp nearby furniture. If you have a serious termite problem, you might have to replace the drywall.