Why Are Termites So Bad?

Termites are not only an annoying pest, they can also be very costly. According to the US Department of Agriculture, termites damage over $5 billion in homes and property annually. The cost of repairs is not covered by homeowners insurance.

Termites are destructive because they feed on wood. These insects are attracted to cellulose, a compound found in plant and animal matter. They break down the cellulose into usable material. They also eat dried flowers, leaves and seeds.

As a colony grows, it will construct a network of tunnels and chambers. As a reproductive termite matures, it will find a mate and start a new colony. These colonies can contain millions of termites.

They can cause serious damage to agricultural resources. They also damage the lumber used to build houses, books, and swimming pool liners.

The largest Formosan termite nest was estimated to be more than 300 feet long and contained 70 million termites. It was discovered in Algiers, Louisiana.

Termites can be present in nearly every state. In some cases, they can infest buildings at any time. The best way to prevent a termite infestation is to have an annual inspection by a professional pest control company. If you do not see signs of a termite infestation, it is still a good idea to check for them.

Termites can cause secondary damages, including cracks in walls and doors. This can lead to other problems such as weakened flooring and crumbling trim. The amount of damage depends on the size of the colony.

Continue reading:

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