Many homeowners around Sonoma County don’t realize that they have termite damage until it’s too late. While termite destruction can usually be fixed, this sometimes isn’t the case. Below you’ll find more information about their destructive habits and how you can prevent them.

What are Termites?

Termites are small insects that are often mistaken for ants. Unlike ants, termites are white and enjoy munching on wood while hiding in dark environments.

How Destructive are Termites?

Despite their small size, termites can be very harmful. Once they begin eating wooden structures, they won’t stop. This will cause small holes to form and could create a structural imbalance.

At first, you might only have a handful of termites. Over time though, they will create nests which will significantly boost their population.

Can You Reverse Termite Damage?

In many cases, termite damage can be reversed, but it depends on how badly the structure is affected.

The first thing to do is call a professional who will quickly remove the termites. Once these insects are gone, they will inspect the area and see what they have destroyed. This will give them a better idea of the problem and how they can fix it.

Keep in mind that this can be expensive. To prevent a pricey problem, it’s important to contact a termite professional as soon as you notice issues.

3 Ways to Prevent Termites

Remove Wood Piles Around Your Home: Termites love wood. If you have wood piles resting near your home, this can become a haven for them. Once they eat this, they will spread into your home’s foundation to find its wooden structure. This is why it’s important to keep wood piles well away from your living space.

Prevent Moisture: Moisture helps termites chew through wood easier. Without it, they will have a tougher time doing so. Because of this, remove as much moisture as you can around your home. Make sure there aren’t leaks and that your sprinklers are pointed away from your foundation.

Inspect Your Home and Seal Gaps: It’s also a good idea to do an inspection of your home and seal any cracks, especially in your crawl space. This won’t only block termites but prevent moisture.

Termites are pesky insects that can cause incredible damage if not stopped. If you suspect you might have a termite problem, contact RCS. We can help reger you to a qualified termite specialist and offer tips as to how to prevent these creatures from returning.