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Termite Structural Damage

In an average year, termites are responsible for $1 billion to $2 billion in property damage. Most of this damage is not covered by standard homeowner insurance policies. Termite infestations commonly go undetected until obvious signs of damage occur.

Termite Damage In Rafters

Termite Damage In Rafters

Termites can damage a number of structural components in a house, including the following:

  • floors

  • support beams

  • posts

  • wall studs

  • floor joists

  • ceiling joists

  • roof supports

  • drywall or sheetrock

  • attics

  • foundations

Depending on the location and extent of the damage, and the building materials required to fix it, repairs can be complicated and costly.

Common signs of termite infestation include sagging floors and ceilings, traces of dust similar to dust, piles of wings that resemble scales and areas that seem to be slightly water damaged. Contrary to popular belief, termites are not partial to aging wooden structures; they have been known to inhabit new buildings within a short time after construction.

Termite Wall Damage

However, although structural failure due to termite damage is not at all uncommon, it can be easily prevented through the use of regular inspections and treatments. Trusted termite inspectors will provide two-part reports, outlining damage already present and potential causes and locations of future damage. Areas with a high likelihood of infestation include damp areas, woodpiles and loose wooden paneling. Addressing these threats may prevent termite infestation and can save homeowners considerable money on structural repairs.

If your termite inspector finds superficial termite damage during an inspection, ask him or her about the extent of the damage. While you may see only a small amount of damage, there may be more damage beneath the surface. For example, if a hardwood floor is damaged, termites likely have infested the subfloor and floor supports beneath it.

More Information

Termite Damage Signs

Attic Damage

Can Termite Damage Be Fixed?

Termites in Carpet

Bathroom Damage

Ceiling Damage

Dry Wall Damage

Floor Damage

Foundation Damage

Tree Damage

Wood Damage

Wall Damage

Foam Board Insulation

Termites & Paint

Water vs Termite Damage

Damage Pictures

Repairing Termite Damage

Think you might have termites in your home? Schedule an appointment to get a free termite inspection from a professional Orkin Pro.

Resources

Dig Deeper on Termite Damage

Termite Floor Damage

Water Damage vs. Termite Damage

How Do Termites Get Into Your House?

Termite Attic Damage

Termite Wall Damage

Termite Damage Signs

Termites Under House Slab

Termite Damage and Insulation

Termite Wood Damage

Termite Detection: Home Risk Areas

Termite illustration

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