The Effects of Termites
Termites are cellulose-eating insects that can infest any structure made of wood. Early signs of termite infestation are mud tubes adhering to the sides of a structure, indoor swarms of termites during certain times of the year and an accumulation of wings from the insects near lights and spider webs. Termite damage may progress slowly, sometimes over a number of years, but if not eradicated, termites will eventually destroy a structure. Does this Spark an idea?
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Wood Damage
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Frequently, termite damage to wood in a structure is hidden and therefore goes undetected for years. It is often discovered when someone or something inadvertently bumps against the wood, and the wood gives way. It may also reveal itself as dips or ridges under wall paper or layers of paint. Once exposed, the termite-damaged wood will appear deteriorated, and tiny tubes similar to the mud tubes termites use to move around the exterior walls will be visible along the grain of the wood. There may be moisture in the area as well, as moisture often encourages termites to take up residence. If you find this type of damage, or if you see any other signs of termite infestation, contact a pest control professional to discuss treatment options.
Other Damage
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Because termites eat cellulose, their diet isn't simply confined to the wood framing that makes up your home. They may also eat important papers, books, even money, if it's made of paper. They have also been known to damage pool liners and filters.
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Formosan Subterranean Termites
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Native species of termites are damaging when they infest your home, but in nature, they play an important role in the natural cycle of forest decay, consuming cellulose in fallen trees and returning the nutrients to the soil. Unfortunately, Formosan subterranean termites are moving in to many forests in certain parts of the United States. These termites don't wait until a tree is dead, but instead infest a tree and begin consuming its structural cellulose while it is still alive. In addition to the deforestation which results from the death of the infested trees, scientists from the United States Forest Service worry that these invasive termites will also disrupt the natural cycle of decomposition by chasing out native species of termites who play such a vital role in the ecosystem. Unfortunately, funding to research the effects of these termites, as well as to determine methods to eradicate them, is limited.
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References
- Photo Credit tree image by Samuray from Fotolia.com
