A large formosan termite colony can cause significant damage to a house in approximately two years if it is not controlled.
Termites roof beams.
But it s difficult for termites to damage a home beyond repair.
Subterranean termites on the other hand need soil to survive.
However subterranean termites will build colonies in any area where they have access to wood.
If you need to repair minor termite damage around your home you can use a structural epoxy wood filler to shore up the wood.
So basically termite damage can be fixed.
Formosan termites a kind of subterranean termite can cause extensive damage to your home in just two years.
However before you apply the epoxy you need to take specific steps to clean and preserve the surviving wood or it will eventually rot from inside.
Unlike drywood termites subterranean termites typically build their colonies in the soil.
They can establish colonies inside ceiling rafters roof beams eaves and other wooden structures associated with your roof.
All of the home damage previously mentioned can be avoided by an inspection before the purchase of a home.
But if structural beams are compromised fixing the damage is difficult.
The most destructive termite in the u s.
Our photo above right illustrates wood rot found in the same floor joist where there was extensive termite damage.
Drywood termites can swarm directly into your home through any entrance and establish a colony in your ceiling or attic space.
The main 10x12 center structural beam was so damaged that about 3 4 of it will have to be replaced.
However inconvenient it may be if you ve found termites in your roof you re going to need to deal with them right away.
Drywood termites can even establish colonies underneath wood shingles.
Drywood termites live and feed inside wood.
Is the formosan termite a type of subterranean termite found in the southern u s.
We have found termite damage carpenter ant activity and powder post beetle damage all in the same structure on occasion even in the same wood beam or joist.
When it comes to termite damage in ceilings drywood and subterranean termites are the most common culprits.
The termites have been in this house for many years and this sign is that there is a large infestation that has caused sever damage to the house.
And in coastal areas.
If left untreated the expanding termite infestation will weaken the wooden framing that supports the roof.
Termite damage inside a home can consist of structural beams 2 x 4 studs floor and ceiling joists drywall hardwood floors window and door frames around the chimney eaves fascia and wood siding.