Most homeowners have heard of termites and know that these pests chew their way through wooden structures including houses garages and fences as well as other natural food sources.
Termite damage siding.
If you notice termite damage early enough you can use a wood hardener to cover the decayed area.
If you suspect termite infestation cut away a piece of wood at the site if possible.
In most cases the repair will be simpler and less expensive if you add a wood support to damaged wood.
Tap on wood siding and listen for a hollow sound that indicates the presence of termite damage.
Termite trails include digested wood residue a powder like substance feces eggs and even dead termites.
Termites can cause significant damage to important parts of the home like the foundation window casings floor joists and other structural elements.
Termite damage sometimes appears similar to water damage.
There are two main ways to repair termite damage to wood.
Termite infestations also can exude a scent similar to mildew or mold.
Termites cause billions of dollars worth of damage to homes and properties each year.
In addition to repairing the damaged wood it may be prudent to make other changes to the home for example making sure that wood siding isn t touching the ground.
Although mild termite infestations can be difficult to spot there are things you can keep an eye out for.
Outward signs of termite damage include buckling wood swollen floors and ceilings areas that appear to be suffering from slight water damage and visible mazes within walls or furniture.
The wood appears darker and develops a typical hollow sound.
Several times a year take a slow walk around your foundation and look for any signs of damage so you can formulate a termite treatment plan.
If the termite damage in your potential home is extensive jones says you should consider having a structural inspection performed by a licensed contractor to determine if the damage is cosmetic.
Subterranean termites devour soft wood and eat along the grain.
Type 3 professional repairs for invasive structural termite damage these repairs are needed for the most destructive form of termite infestation.
Different types of termites leave distinctly different patterns of damage in wood.
Subterranean termites also access above ground food sources through mud tunnels they create from saliva mud and feces.
Add a wood support adjacent to damaged wood.
Inspect wood that s suspected to be damaged.
In appearance the siding may appear to be sound and whole but underneath the surface the wood is destroyed.
Replace damaged sections of wood entirely or.
When the termite infestation becomes deep seated it shows clear signs of extensive damage.
If you see mud tubes it s time for a closer inspection and some diy termite control tactics.