Termite Troubles

House Detective : Episode HDT-612 -- More Projects »
A large active colony of termites could chew through a foot-long section of 2x4 in just five months. Termite damage can be devastating and not just to wood. Termites will eat anything containing cellulose including paper products, cardboard and carpeting.

If left undetected, termites can literally eat you out of house and home. So it’s a good idea to check periodically for any signs of these unwanted woodworkers.

  • Try tapping with the end of a screwdriver on wood around the house, particularly where the wood comes into contact with the ground. A hollow sound where it should sound solid could indicate a termite problem.

  • If wood is soft to the touch, it could be because of termites.

  • Check for mud tubes. Termites use them as superhighways. If you’ve got mud tubes, you’ve got termites.

But don’t panic. Termites have been around for centuries and the forests are still standing. Call a pest control professional and start a regular regimen of termite prevention through inspection and treatment.

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