Why Does Wood Get Termites?

Termites are small insects that prefer to feed on cellulose. This is the organic fiber that is abundant in most plant materials. They are also attracted to moisture and warm temperatures. Termites have bacteria and protozoa in their guts that give them life-sustaining energy.

Termites have special mouth parts that enable them to chew through wood. They will leave behind sawdust-like material in the process. Using this material, they can create tunnels in the wood to make their way above ground. They are able to eat through any area of the wood, including cracks and window sills.

Termites are attracted to moist, warm areas and damp soil. They can enter homes by burrowing through the cracks of the wood. They will then feed on cellulose and decaying leaves.

When termites have found their way inside a home, they will find places to live. They will also build large underground nests. They will eat through an average sized house in about 10 to 15 years.

If a home is near a damp area, it is highly likely that it will be infested by termites. A homeowner’s first line of defense is to keep the home dry and to check for leaks. The National Pest Management Association estimates that termite infestation costs American homeowners 5 billion dollars a year.

Termites can be isolated in a home by sealing the cracks in the wall with chemicals or by replacing cracked caulking. It is also recommended that the homeowner invest in long-term termite control solutions.

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