Every homeowner worries about the many different potential threats that could damage their home and property. Hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes, for instance, are obviously serious hazards that place millions of people at risk every year. However, there are also much smaller threats that can end up causing just as much damage as a severe storm. Houses are vulnerable to several types of home-destroying pests, so homeowners should know how to identify warning signs of infestation. Here are four insects that can cause structural damage to your home.
Termites
There are a variety of termite species found across North America that are collectively responsible for more than $5 billion in property damage in the U.S. annually. Infestations are initially small and usually go unnoticed until tangible structural damage has already occurred. Homeowners can reduce the risk by storing wood away from the house, removing dead stumps from the yard and inspecting the structure externally on a regular basis.
Auger Beetles
Auger beetles, also known as false powderpost or horned powderpost beetles, are a collection of related inspect species known for their destructive habits. These bugs bore into wooden materials, including walls, timber, and furniture, to create shelter and complete their lifecycle. This leaves unsightly holes on the outside and diminishes the integrity of the material until it collapses.
Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants don't always aim for wooden material, but they can cause serious problems when an infestation is left unchecked. These ants tend to be larger than other common ant species in North America, although there are many different variants throughout the country. Rather than consuming wood, these ants may destroy a significant amount of material to make room for a secluded nest.
Carpenter Bees
While they do bear a strong resemblance to bumblebees, carpenter bees have a habit of hovering around fences, walls, and other wooden objects. Once they find a spot they deem suitable, the bees bore large holes directly into the wood to serve as shelter. The visible hole only serves as an entrance for what becomes a network of tunnels angled throughout the interior, which can deteriorate and destabilize the material over time.
Wood-destroying pests are a serious natural threat to homes of all shapes and sizes, and some are a particularly common problem in certain geographical areas. Homeowners shouldn't hesitate to contact pest experts like Fowler Pest Control to conduct thorough inspections of their property and recommend management strategies for any active infestations.
