Will Termites Destroy My Home?
WouterIf you have a house, you may wonder, will termites destroy my home? The answer depends on the size and nature of the colony. A moderately large colony can do more structural damage in a short period of time than a small one.
The term “termite” is actually a genus of insects that feed on plant-based materials, such as cellulose. They use enzymes to digest this material. They do this in a complex network of caverns.
When a termite eats wood, it can cause it to buckle and warp. The resulting damage can be costly to repair. If you’re not sure whether or not your home has been infected by termites, conduct an inspection.
A termite’s main food source is cellulose, an organic material that is present in most wood. While there is no specific formula for how much of a particular material is required, a termite can eat up to 2% of its weight in wood every day.
Besides eating wood, termites can also eat mold, paper, dung, and clothing. However, they rarely bite humans.
A termite colony can grow so large that they can even infest multiple backyards at once. This can be a serious threat to your home. If you suspect that you have a large infestation, call an exterminator immediately. The cost to repair a house after a termite attack can be several thousand dollars.
Fortunately, a few simple fixes can prevent termites from wreaking havoc on your home. Ensure proper ventilation and humidity levels, check your gutters, and keep all plumbing and leaky faucets clean.
