What Do Termites Damage?

Termites eat cellulose, which is most commonly found in wood. That’s why they’re known for devouring wood – because it’s such a rich source of cellulose. They often search for wood that’s touching the soil because it’s easiest for their burrowing.

Termites will infest structures inside and outside. Over time, you may start to notice termite damage on:

Support beams
Flooring
Posts
Wall studs
Insulation
Sheds
Lumber
Wooden decks
Outdoor furniture

Why Do Termites Infest Wood?

It’s not the wood they’re after; it’s the cellulose. Wood just so happens to be an exceptionally cellulose-rich material.

Most homes are built primarily with wood, which is why termites find your property so appealing. This means your walls, support beams, drywood, ceilings, floorboards, baseboards, windows, and even insulation. In your yard, termites can infest piles of sticks or firewood, roof tiles, patio furniture, decaying logs, and more.

Termite-Resistant Materials

Termites are known to infest wood, but the good news is that termite-resistant building materials are available. There are even certain types of wood that termites don’t like:

Redwood/cedar: These types of wood are somewhat naturally resistant to termites. However, once the wood starts to break down or decay they can become attractive to termites
Cement/concrete: The material is simply too solid for termites to burrow into and it lacks cellulose. Termites can make their way through small cracks in concrete, however
Treated lumber: Treating lumber can prevent rot and make it undesirable to pests. This is why treated lumber is used often in new build construction now
Metal: Termites have no interest in metal because it contains no cellulose

Termite Damage in Your Long Island Home

Termites require cellulose to survive. Subterranean termites, the type found here on Long Island, are most likely to infest wood that’s in contact with soil.

Knowing that, there are preventative measures you can take to stop termites from infesting. Your best bet is to hire a professional – like the expert termite exterminators at Arrow Exterminating – to visit your home for an inspection and advise you on preventative actions you can take.

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