Termite Damage in America

Annual termite damage in the U.S. is estimated to be more than $5 billion

It is estimated that termites cause billions (with a B!) of dollars of damage in the United States each year.

The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) estimates that on average, 600,000 homes are at risk for damage by these quiet killers each year. It is also estimated that the U.S. spends over $5 billion annually on termite damage repair and prevention, with some experts saying the cost may be even greater.

Different Types of Termite Damage

There are three types of termites found in the U.S.: dampwood termites, drywood termites, and subterranean termites.

Termite presence of any type can be difficult to detect at first glance because they typically remain hidden within walls and flooring. Each termite causes a specific type of damage and each has its own warning signs to help identify an infestation.

It is important to note that just because you may not see signs of termites or termite damage in one area of your home, doesn’t mean theyaren’t there. Termites continually forage for new food sources and places to build their colonies. 

Subterranean Termite Damage 

Subterranean termites originate in the soil and build mud tubes that provide them with shelter and safety as they move towards their food source. The main cause of termite damage in the U.S., subterranean termite damage takes on the appearance of water damage, with buckling wood or bubbly paint. They also leave small holes in wood about the size of a push pin hole.

Dampwood Termite Damage 

Like their name, dampwood termites make their homes in moderately to very damp wood. These termites are more likely to be found on food outside on the ground that has collected moisture, but are also very apt to make their home in any water-damaged wood you may have around your home. This can add more damage to your home and weaken the frame much more than water damage alone.

Drywood Termite Damage

Drywood termites eat through much of the dry wood in your home consuming most of the wood, leaving hollow and thin wood. Wood eaten against the grain is usually a sign of termite tunneling and damage. If left for too long (termite activity may go unnoticed for 3-8 years), the damage inside could cause the structure of your home to severely weaken.

Where are Termites in the US

Though termites are present throughout the United States, the most damage has been known to occur in the southernmost parts of the country, as well as along the Southern California coastline.

The least damage seems to occur in the northernmost regions of the United States. Homeowners in regions with high termite-activity reports should be aware and take the necessary precautions to avoid a termite infestation.

(via Termites Treatment)

Termite Inspection & Repair

On average, the cost of a home repair due to termite damage in the U.S. is more than $3,000 for each case.

Most homeowners insurance plans won’t cover the costs of termite damage because it is labeled as an ‘avoidable incident.’ It is important to schedule an annual appointment with a pest professional each year to check your home for termite activity to stay safe. By doing so, you significantly decrease your chances of a serious termite problem or more expensive repair costs from a long-gone undiscovered infestation.

Catseye knows that each home is unique and so are the species of termites that may be living in it. Learn more about Catseye’s termite control service  and, if you are concerned that your home might be inhabited by termites, contact us today for a no-cost inspection.