What Do Termites Damage?
Termites feed primarily on wood and are capable of damaging any wood within a structure. Any material containing cellulose is at risk of being ravaged by termites.
In Eastern Tennessee, termites target a number of areas within a home or business. Indoors, they can damage support beams, cabinets, flooring, wood posts, wall studs, and more. Termites also destroy plaster and the foam insulation inside your home. Outdoors, they can easily damage piles of lumber, fallen logs, wooden decks, outdoor furniture, and more. Considering that these wood-boring insects can feed upon multiple materials found in or near your home, a termite infestation within a structure can have devastating results.
Where do Termites Damage Wood?
Termites will infest any wood source, particularly if the wood has contact with the soil. Most homes in Eastern Tennessee are built primarily with wood, which is why termites find your property so attractive. Your interior walls, support beams, ceilings, floor boards, baseboards, windows, and insulation are vulnerable. On the exterior of your home, termites can infest piles of firewood, roof tiles, patio furniture, decaying logs, and more.
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What Can Termites Not Infest?
Although wood makes up the bulk of a termite’s diet, you may wonder if there are other materials that are at risk of destruction by termites.
Termites are not capable of infesting the following materials:
- Treated lumber: Wood treated with chemicals helps to prevents rot and makes it unattractive to pests. Treated lumber is often used in new builds to prevent termites.
- Cement/concrete: Termites will not eat through concrete as the material is too solid and lacks cellulose. They can, however, make their way through small cracks in concrete.
- Metal: Again, metal does not contain cellulose and is not suitable for termites.
- Redwood/cedar: These types of wood are somewhat naturally resistant to termites. However, decay can attract termites to any wood.
Why Do Termites Damage Wood?
Termites depend on the cellulose within wood to survive. Extreme damage typically occurs when a termite colony matures, at about a 5-years. To protect your property from a termite infestation, it’s best to work with a professional termite exterminator such as Johnson Pest Control.
If you notice signs of termite damage, contact your local termite control experts today!
What do termites damage? in Sevierville TN
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