How Much Damage Can Termites Do?
WouterTermites have the potential to damage your home. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage, destroy personal belongings, and make your home unsafe. Fortunately, a few easy tips can help you keep them at bay.
First, consider the size of the colony. For instance, a small colony of two or three workers can do just as much damage as a large one.
A termite colony can consume up to a pound of wood per day. This number can go up or down depending on the type of colony. If you live in a region with a high moisture level, you could be in for a treat.
It’s not hard to imagine a home or office that’s destroyed by a termite infestation. In fact, termites are notorious for causing structural damage. They can chew through floors, walls, and even cabinets.
A termite’s ability to eat through a 2” by 4” board in a matter of months indicates just how dangerous they can be. For a single colony, this is enough to do serious damage.
To put the power of this impressive statistic into perspective, consider the amount of property damages reported each year by homeowners and businesses in the U.S. These damages are nearly five times more than the number of fires, hurricanes, and earthquakes.
In addition to consuming wood, termites can create an odor that’s difficult to shake off. The waste they leave behind is called frass. It’s a colorful, clumpy substance that can stain walls and furniture.
