Termite infestations cost homeowners millions of dollars to rid their home of them and restore the structural damage. According to Orkin, “termites damage approximately 600,000 homes in the U.S. each year.” In turn, knowing the signs of termite infestation and acting fast can save homeowners the headaches and money. In order to know how to identify termites in hardwood floors, check for these signs of infestation and what to do to stop them in their tracks.
What are Termites?
A termite is a light-colored insect that feeds on wood. They have wings and often occupy wooded areas. There are several different species of termites:
Subterranean
These are the most common, and according to Pest World, “the most destructive of all termites.” Subterranean termites are common throughout the United States, normally residing underground or in moist areas above ground.
Formosan
These termites are similar to Subterranean termites because of how much damage they can cause. Formosan termites produce large colonies that can chew through the wood structures at a very fast rate.
Dampwood
Common in areas along the coasts and in the southwest, dampwood termites are attracted to places exposed to a lot of moisture.
Drywood
This type of termite is unique because it doesn’t require an area to have soil in order to establish a colony. You can find Drywood termites in walls, attics or roofs.
While you might not be able to spot a termite with the naked eye, you’ll probably notice wood structures falling apart. Knowing the signs of an infestation is important for all homeowners.
What are the Signs of an Infestation?
There are many sure signs of an infestation that a homeowner should pay attention to. Orkin lists discolored drywall and wood, squeaky floors, and chipping wood as common signs of an infestation. Homeowners should pay close attention to patterns in wood structures. These patterns suggest a path that termites have chewed through the wood. Also, termites can contribute to crowning and buckling in your hardwood and laminate floors. Homeowners shouldn’t ignore the following signs: mud tubes, wing piles and piles of feces.
If you see any of these signs, it’s important to stop the infestation in its tracks.
Stopping a Termite Infestation and Long-Term Prevention
Depending on what species of termites have inhabited your home and how much they’ve damaged your home will determine what needs to be done. First and foremost, you should contact an inspector to assess your home and determine the presence of termites. After your home has been rid of the infestation, you should have professionals assess the damage done to hardwood and laminate floors.
Hardwood floors that are buckled, cupped or chipped away require replacing. Tile flooring and hardwoods such as cedar have been proven to be more resilient to damage from termites. My Affordable Flooring offers a wide range of repair services for hardwood floors. Give us a call today to give your home a fresh start with new floors.
