Termites are the most notorious among the numerous insects that are a nuisance in our homes. Repairing termite damage can significantly dent your household budget. Statistics show that termites cause damage to up to 600,000 homes yearly in the United States, and residents spend at least $1 billion yearly on Formosan termite control alone.
Keep reading to learn more about the cost of termite infestations and why Urban Desert Pest Control is your trusted source for termite and pest control in Phoenix, AZ.
The Risks and Costs of Termite Damage
While more than 3,000 termite species exist, Phoenix is mainly home to subterranean termites. These termites live in large colonies underground and come out through mud tubes to feed and use their scissor-like jaws to chew wood products throughout the day. Subterranean termites search for wood that is damaged by water, rot, or decay.
They can severely damage structural timbers in buildings, utility poles, and other structures constructed with cellulose materials. According to the U.S. Environmental Protect Authority, termites account for billions of dollars in structural damage.
The cost of dealing with these annoying insects varies depending on the severity of the infestation. However, the average property owner spends about $3,000 repairing termite damage.
The most common types of termite damage include:
- Tunnels and holes in wooden structural elements.
- Mud tubes affecting home foundations.
- Destabilization of ceilings and walls
This damage can quickly escalate, costing you a fortune to fix. You should schedule regular termite inspections to detect infestations before things get worse.
How to Tell If You Have Termite Infestation
Almost every property in Phoenix is at risk of termite damage, and yours is no exception. It’s critical to be on the lookout and pay attention to any warning signs of a potential infestation before it becomes a costly issue.
Below are some of the most common ways to tell if you have termites in your home:
Termite or Mud Tubes Around Your Home
The major sign of subterranean termite infestation is mud tubes. These termites build pathways to provide moisture and regulate temperature as they build their colonies and search for food.
They make the tubes from wood, soil, and termite saliva. While the brown tubes vary in size, they’re usually approximately the width of a coffee straw. You’ll often see these tubes near your home’s foundation.
Clicking Noises Inside the Walls or Floor
Worker termites make a lot of noise when devouring wood and cellulose materials, and if you listen closely, you can hear clicking sounds inside the floor or walls. Soldier termites also make thumping noises when they bang their head against the wood or shake to communicate with their colleagues in the colony.
Termite Swarmers and Discarded Wings in Your Home
Seeing termite swarmers in your home indicates that you have an active infestation, and you shouldn’t hesitate to call for termite and pest control services. Termites live in a caste system encompassing soldiers, workers, and swarmers.
Termite swarmers are called alates and are the reproductive members of a colony. You can easily detect them because they have two pairs of large, pale-colored wings. The wings are between ¼ and ½ inches longs. A swarmer sheds its wings once it leaves the colony and finds a mate.
Since warming termites are attracted to lights, they’re usually around windows and doors. Moreover, they don’t stay indoors long, so you may find dead swarmers or discarded wings near your entryways and windowsills.
Hollow Sound When You Knock on Wood
As termites eat wood from the inside, they usually leave thin pieces behind that cause a hollow sound. However, it can be challenging to notice this damage.
If you notice wings or hear clicking noises in any area of your home, try hitting or knocking on the door to determine if it’s hollow. A hollow-sounding wood is a sure sign of a termite infestation.
When You Should Get a Termite Inspection
Preventing a termite infestation can save you hundreds to thousands of dollars since many insurance companies don’t cover termite damage. Inspecting your property for these annoying pests is critical to preventing damage and keeping your property in excellent condition.
You should schedule a termite inspection in the following situations:
- If you own a home, periodic termite inspections will save you thousands of dollars in potential structural repair costs.
- If you’re purchasing or selling a property, a professional termite inspection is integral to the pre-purchase inspection process. It helps ensure the seller and buyer are aware of any potential termite damage.
- If you’re worried about the potential dangers termites may pose to your property or loved ones, a professional inspection can give you peace of mind.
- Regular termite inspections are also essential if you’re renting a home. You should notify your landlord if you suspect you have termite damage.
Contact Us for a Free Quote for Expert Termite and Pest Control in Phoenix, AZ
Now that you understand the cost of termite damage and the importance of termite prevention, you should work with a reputable termite control expert. Urban Desert Pest Control can help if you need reliable pest services in Phoenix, AZ.
We’ve provided termite and pest control services in the Phoenix area since 2015. Our expert team will evaluate your situation and employ a personalized pest management approach to ensure long-term results.
Call us at (602) 962-8826 for a quote for professional termite control today.
