Out of all the pests that can invade your home, termites are among some of the most destructive. These bugs are very small creatures, only about the size of an ant. Yet they can cause expensive amounts of damage. If left untreated, homes or buildings will maintain a great deal of structural damage with a termite infestations. To give yourself peace of mind, it’s important to know the types of damage they can cause and what to do if you find yourself with a termite issue.
How Much Damage Can Termites Cause?
Termite damage costs around the United States are based on estimates because there is no central reporting system for this data. Many pest control companies report their data to agricultural agencies across the country, but the actual costs are unknown. Based on this data, however, it is estimated that the damage costs caused by termites are:
- Approximately 600,000 homes are damaged in the United States each year
- $5 billion are spent annually by residents to repair damage and control termites
- Termite damage costs an average of $1500 to recover from an infestation
Depending on the severity of the infestation, homeowners could spend anywhere from $500 to $6000 on repairing the damage caused by these pests. In addition to the initial eradication of the termites, homeowners will need to repair any damage they have caused. How long the pests have been in the home and how far they have spread will determine the extent to which repairs will need to be made. A professional will also likely suggest a plan to continually inspect and prevent future outbreaks of termites from occurring in the home. All of these steps, while costly, will ensure that the termites are gone for good and will not cause future damage to the home.
Many homeowners wonder if termite repairs are covered by home insurance. In most cases, termite damage is not covered by insurance since preventative measures and regular maintenance can typically prevent major damage to homes. It is always a good idea, however, to check with your insurance for the specifics of your policy, especially if the damage is extensive.
Signs of Termite Damage
There are a few telltale signs of termite damage that you can be made aware of. These include:
- Buckling floors or ceilings
- Mud tunnels around the foundation of the structure
- Appearance of water damage around interior of home
- A hollow sound made when tapping on wood
- Painted walls that bubble and peel
If you notice any of these issues around your home, we recommend you call an expert to inspect the property immediately. These signs typically occur many years after an infestation begins, so the damage may be more extensive that you might guess based on the cues you can see around your property.
How Can I Prevent Termites?
To avoid the expensive damage that termites can cause, preventative measures are an important investment in the well-being of your home. At All Pest Solutions, we recommend the Sentricon Termite Elimination System for a safe and effective method to treat and prevent termite infestations. By installing bait stations around the perimeter of the home, we build a barrier of protection to kill and repel termites from your property. This investment in your home can provide peace of mind for years to come. If you are interested in learning more about this termite solution, contact us to schedule an inspection so you and your family can rest easy knowing your home is protected from the expensive damage that termites can cause.