Termite Damage Siding

Subterranean termites devour soft wood and eat along the grain.

Termite damage siding.

Termite damage sometimes appears similar to water damage. No termites don t eat concrete but they do create mud tubes which are a sign termites are trying to scale up your foundation in search of siding or other tasty wood. 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. Termites like to chew tunnels through wood siding leaving the painted surface untouched.

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. 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. Subterranean termites also access above ground food sources through mud tunnels they create from saliva mud and feces. 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.

If you notice termite damage early enough you can use a wood hardener to cover the decayed area. Different types of termites leave distinctly different patterns of damage in wood. There are two main ways to repair termite damage to wood. Termite trails include digested wood residue a powder like substance feces eggs and even dead termites.

In most cases the repair will be simpler and less expensive if you add a wood support to damaged wood. Although mild termite infestations can be difficult to spot there are things you can keep an eye out for. Inspect wood that s suspected to be damaged. 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.

Tap on wood siding and listen for a hollow sound that indicates the presence of termite damage. If you suspect termite infestation cut away a piece of wood at the site if possible. Their colonies can number in the thousands or even millions and a termite colony can lay waste to wooden beams rafters siding or flooring in your home or garage. If you see mud tubes it s time for a closer inspection and some diy termite control tactics.

The wood appears darker and develops a typical hollow sound. Termite infestations also can exude a scent similar to mildew or mold. Type 3 professional repairs for invasive structural termite damage these repairs are needed for the most destructive form of termite infestation. Termites can cause significant damage to important parts of the home like the foundation window casings floor joists and other structural elements.

When the termite infestation becomes deep seated it shows clear signs of extensive damage. Replace damaged sections of wood entirely or.