Home & Garden Pest Control

Termites - The Silent Destroyers: Target Massachusetts

Each year, homeowners spend more than $5 billion to control termites and repair the damage they cause in approximately 600,000 homes in the United States.
In fact, termites cause more damage to U.
S.
homes than tornadoes, hurricanes, wind and hail storms combined.
Unlike weather-related damage, termite damage is not covered by homeowners insurance.
And these wood-destroying insects can live in the soil underground and inside wooden structures for long periods of time before their destruction is discovered.
According to Termite Infestation Probability Zones (TIP Zones), most of Massachusetts is located in TIP Zone #2 which is considered moderate to heavy.
This means the potential for termite damage is significant.
Termites are active across the state, from Boston to Worcester to Springfield, Mass.
Termites are less likely to be found along the coast in Cape Cod.
Subterranean termites are known to cause damage to homes in Massachusetts.
Drywood termites are not native to the state, but it is possible for this species to travel in wooden objects, such as furniture and wine crates, and establish colonies in the state.
Drywood termites have already been found in areas far from their native habitats.
Termites are often called the "silent destroyers.
" They may leave few signs of activity as they steadily consume wood and sheetrock paper in the walls, ceilings and floors of homes.
Unfortunately, once you discover the signs of termite activity, your home may have already sustained significant damage.
Damage from termites can range from minor, superficial damage to major structural damage that can cause ceilings or floors to collapse.
They can nest in structural timbers, including posts, floor supports, ceiling supports, subfloors and wall studs.
Termites also can damage non-structural components, including drywall paperboard, paneling, carpet and furniture.
Early detection of termite infestations is crucial to minimize the risk and cost of repairing termite damage.
Annual inspections by a trained termite professional can help you detect signs of activity you would not normally notice.
In some cases, termite damage can be easily mistaken for water damage.
Termite inspectors can discern between structural damage caused by water or wood-destroying insects - including termites, carpenter ants and beetles.

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