You know to look for signs of termites around the perimeter of your foundation, but have you considered checking the insulation in your attic, crawlspace, or basement? While not their first choice, termites will quickly eat their way through your home to get to the wood foundation. Pro-Staff, your preferred pest control Des Moines experts, help you recognize the signs of termite damage.
Energy Efficiency
Your insulation helps your home to be energy efficient. When termites start to snack on your insulation on their way to your home’s foundation, they’re actually damaging your home’s energy efficiency. In fact, studies have found that once damaged by termites, insulation can become 75 percent less efficient — and termites can make their way through your home’s insulation at an alarming pace. In just eight weeks, termites can make their way through 12 percent of home’s insulation, resulting in immediately decreased energy efficiency. Think of that in terms of your energy bill. A home that can’t stay warm means the heater is always running, which can quickly run up your bill. If you notice your energy bill has been increasing, it could be an early sign of termites! Check your home for discarded wings, mud tubes, and hollow-sounding wood.
Damage
While termites will chew their way through your home’s insulation to get to the wood, they may find a way around it. It can be helpful to have termite inspections performed regularly to ensure that your home is protected. Each season, walk your property checking for signs of termite damage. This includes:
- Buckling floorboards
- Crumbling or damaged wood
- Discolored drywall
- Doors or windows that no longer open properly
- Hollow-sounding wood
- Loose tiles
- Maze-like patterns in the floors or walls
- Mud tunnels
- Peeling paint
- Pinpoint holes in drywall
- Sagging or squeaky floorboards
- Termite feces, which can look like salt and pepper
- Termite wings
When it comes to protecting your home from termites, it’s best to have a prevention plan in place. Pro-Staff, your preferred pest control Des Moines experts, guarantees 100% control of Subterranean Termites. By using Termidor, America’s number one choice in termite control, we create a barrier between your house and termites, protecting both your home and it’s insulation. To learn more about our services, give us a call at (515) 279-7378.