Termite Learning Center
Termite Damage
1. Where does termite damage start? »
Termite damage is unfortunately often not found until extensive damage has been done. Some of the first signs of termite damage include unexplained cracks on internal walls, mud tubes on the exterior of the home, weak or cracked flooring, and doors or windows sticking. Seeing termite damage often is a bad sign, so it’s crucial to always be on the lookout.
2. How much damage can termites cause in Santa Fe NM? »
Termites can cause a lot of damage to any structure they infest, but it typically takes between 2 and 8 years to visibly notice signs of damage unless you are actively looking for it. Throughout the United States, termites cause an estimated 5 billion dollars in damages as they infest the homes of millions of homeowners each year.
3. What does termite damage look like? »
The damage caused by termites is most often hidden within the structure of a home. Generally, termite damage takes on the appearance of damaged or hollowed-out wood, broken flooring, sagging ceilings, peeling paint, and chewed-through insulation. Within your home, you are most likely to see damage in your walls, flooring, ceilings, and even doors or windows.
4. How much does termite damage cost to repair in Santa Fe NM? »
Termites can cost homeowners a lot of money when it comes to repairing the damage they leave behind. While cosmetic damage can be repaired rather easily, the expenses of fixing structural damage can set a homeowner back an average of $3,000. In the United States, termite damage is reported to cost billions of dollars each year.
5. Does insurance cover termite damage? »
It is very rare to find a homeowners insurance policy that covers the cost of damage caused by termites. Most insurance agencies consider termite destruction to be preventable, and thus do not offer coverage for the high costs of repairs. While there are several loopholes through which homeowners may find themselves eligible for reimbursement, it is unlikely.
6. Can termite damage be stopped? »
Termite infestations can be dreadful for any homeowner to discover, especially when the termites have been spreading for months or years. Thankfully, termite damage can be stopped with timely and effective treatment when it is found. Your best chance at stopping termites is by enlisting the help of a professional pest control company.
7. How do I get a WDI report in Santa Fe NM? »
Whenever you buy, sell, or refinance a home, it is required to acquire a Wood Destroying Insect report. When a WDI report is needed, a professional pest control company will thoroughly inspect a property and report on either the presence or absence of termites and/or other wood-destroying insects in the home.
8. What do termites damage? »
Termites are capable of damaging many structures and items in or around your home. Anything containing cellulose is vulnerable to being infested by termites, which is why they are so dangerous. Some of the items termites most often infest include support beams, flooring, posts, wall studs, piles of lumber, fallen logs, decks, outdoor furniture, and more.
9. Buying a home with termite damage in Santa Fe NM »
Many people wonder if it’s safe to buy a home with termite damage. Almost always, it is perfectly normal to buy a home with a history of termites. The purpose of a WDI report is to ensure the new homeowner is made aware of not only past termite damage, but also any threats of future infestations.
10. How do you fix termite damage? »
Depending on the type and extent of damage caused by termites, it can almost always be fixed by yourself or a professional. Cosmetic termite damage such as paint peeling is an easy fix, whereas serious wood damage almost always requires the knowledge and experience of a contractor who can safely repair structural elements in the home.
