How Water Damage Creates a Moist Environment That Is Attractive to Termites

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: Because termites prefer a damp environment, water damage issues can lead to termite problems. SERVPRO of Palo Alto urges homeowners to have water damage remediated as soon as it is discovered and to take steps to prevent a termite infestation.

Water damage in Sunnyvale, CA, can be accompanied by all sorts of issues, including mold and mildew growth, rust and corrosion of metal surfaces, and rotting wood. However, another consequence of water damage is a potential termite infestation. Termites love moisture. If water damage is not mitigated promptly or if a hidden water leak occurs, the water can create a moist environment that is attractive to a termite colony.

Types of Termites in California

Several types of termites can be found in the state of California. Three common types are the subterranean termite, the drywood termite, and the dampwood termite. With a typical size of about ? inch long, the subterranean termite is the smallest of the three species, but it can cause large-scale damage to a home. The Formosan termite, a subterranean termite informally known as the super-termite, is an especially destructive species since these termites can create large colonies and devour wood rapidly. One colony of Formosan termites can contain millions of these insects. This large colony size means that Formosan termites can cause damage to a wooden structure on a larger scale and in a shorter time period than other types of termites.

The Connection Between Moisture and Termites

Termites are infamous for their diet of wood, but termites also rely on water to stay hydrated and to help them digest wood cellulose. As a result, moist wood is a prime feeding source for the millions of hungry termites that comprise a Formosan termite colony.

Even homes in areas with little rainfall can be susceptible to a termite infestation. Leaking plumbing or a leaking appliance, such as the dishwasher or washing machine, can soak a wood floor, creating the moist environment that termites thrive in.

Homeowners may think that they will be able to quickly spot and deal with a water leak. However, not all leaks that cause serious problems involve large quantities of water spilling across the floor. In the case of a hidden water leak, a small leak can occur in an area that is rarely inspected, and the leak might not be discovered until the water damage and a potential termite infestation have progressed significantly.

Terminix, a leader in the pest control industry, provides the following advice: “Subterranean termites, who build their colonies in the soil, are attracted to moisture. Standing water in or around your home’s foundation creates an attractive environment for these termites. Leaky pipes are not just a plumbing issue and should be addressed before creating an opportunity for termite infestation. You should also clean your roof gutters and take steps to ensure there is proper drainage around your home. Finally, check that your foundation is properly ventilated and trim back or remove any landscaping that could allow humidity to build up in your home’s crawl space.”

How to Make a Home Unattractive to Termites

Homeowners can take several measures that help prevent a termite infestation or that better prepare homeowners should a termite infestation occur.

• Maintain downspouts and gutters, and make sure that they are properly directing water away from the foundation of the house. If downspouts and gutters become damaged, repair the damage promptly.
• Be vigilant for cracks, gaps, and holes in the walls or foundation; termites can easily enter the home through these openings.
• When planting bushes, shrubs, or other landscape features, take care not to plant the greenery too close to the side of the home. The moisture surrounding the plants, as well as the presence of mulch, can attract a termite colony.
• Have stumps in the yard removed. A moist, rotting stump is an ideal home for termites, which can spread as many as 300 ft in soil. Before long, a colony that was confined to a stump in the front yard can end up taking hold in the home.
• Prequalify a reputable pest control company to eliminate a termite infestation if a thriving colony is discovered.
• Prequalify a water damage restoration specialist to provide rapid water damage restoration services in the event of water damage. When water damage is quickly remediated, the chances of attracting termites are significantly reduced.

For more information about water damage restoration in Sunnyvale, CA, and the surrounding area, contact the SERVPRO of Palo Alto team by phone at (650) 800-3448 or reach out to the team by email at office@SERVPROpaloalto.com