Termites are among nature’s most destructive pests. If you own a wooden structure, chances are good that you’re aware of the damage they can cause. By pre-treating vulnerable spaces, however, you might be able to avoid the most costly impacts of a termite infestation.
Signs of Potential Termite Damage
Termites may be active in a structure for months or years before the damage they inflict is visible. During this initial period, they dig tunnels, lay eggs and fortify their living spaces. If you’re observant, you might spot telltale signs of such activity. These include:
• Holes or cracks in furniture
• Small piles of droppings
• Bubbling or peeling paint
• Holes or “mud tubes” near the exterior walls of a structure
Most Common Types of Damage
In Texas, most termite infestations are caused by drywood termites that favor large pieces of furniture and above-ground interior walls. When termites take to furniture, they eventually cause visible damage that destroys the value of any affected fixtures and may render them unsuitable for use in any capacity. In walls and floors, termites can hollow out drywall and sheetrock. They may also weaken buildings’ structural elements and cause unwanted “settling” that affects the operation of doors, windows and appliances.
Cost of Structural Damage
Depending on the duration of the infestation that caused it, the cost of termite-related structural damage can vary dramatically. By the time a piece of furniture displays obvious signs of damage, it’s likely to be deemed a total loss for insurance purposes. Likewise, damaged ceiling and wall beams generally need to be replaced to meet local and state building standards. Structures that “settle” as a result of termite activity may need significant foundation work that can cost many thousands of dollars. In Texas, the average termite repair job costs $10,000.
How Pre-Treatment Works
We install and maintain a stainless steel mesh system that’s proven to prevent termites from entering homes and establishing colonies. The system doesn’t require homeowners to apply any harsh pesticides and comes with warranty protection that provides much-needed peace of mind.
An Ounce of Prevention: Trust the Dallas Pest Control Experts
As a homeowner or business owner, the last thing you want is a termite infestation in your residence or place of business. By the time you realize something is amiss, you could already be facing thousands of dollars’ worth of structural damages to your building. The cost of pre-treatment is vastly lower than that of after-the-fact repairs, so it’s crucial that you work with a proven termite prevention authority. Visit us online or call (469) 549-7300 to learn more about our services or to schedule a free estimate.