Termites: A Hidden Danger to the Home
Janay RickwalderFriday, November 9, 2012
While it’s common practice to get an inspection when buying a
new house, it’s easy for people put aside giving the home an
occasional checkup. However, when it comes to your property, there
are a few common problems that could be eating away at its
value.
Fox News reports that mold, a bad foundation, roof damage and
faulty wiring are some of the issues that could really break the
bank with repairs. But, many people forget about termites, a silent, wood-eating
pest that can cause serious and costly damage to a home in a matter
of weeks.
Unfortunately, termites are responsible for more than $5 billion
in property damage every year. Worse still, is the fact that damage
caused by termites is not usually covered by homeowners' insurance
policies.
The best method of
termite control is to avoid water accumulation near the home's
foundation. Therefore, the National Pest Management Association
encourages homeowners to take some time to inspect the foundation
of the house for mud tubes or areas of accumulated water. However,
if a termite infestation is suspected, contact a licensed pest
professional to inspect and treat the problem.