25 April 2018
 Categories: , Blog

While it is well known that termites cause extensive damage to wooden structures, they can also cause other forms of damage to humans and property. Indeed, termites are relentless in their pursuit of food (cellulose). As they burrow through your home to find more cellulose for the colony, they can also consume other household items and cause several health risks to you and your family. Some of those risks include:

Bite marks

Colonies of termites contain soldiers that have large and sharp mandibles for consuming wood. As termites penetrate various wooden structures in your home, they increase the likelihood of you accidentally stepping or touching one of them.

A termite bite can cause a burning sensation, itching, and pain. This can be worsened by allergic reactions to the skin that you may have. If a termite infestation continues to grow, you are more likely to come in contact with these soldiers on various pieces of furniture.

Damaged Clothes and paper

In their pursuit of cellulose-containing materials, termites may consume more than just wood. In fact, if wood is in limited supply, they tend to proceed to consume paper, clothes, boxes, and other similar items. You certainly don't want termites ruining your precious wardrobe, do you?

Allergies

Termites may release dust and other light particles that penetrate the air and trigger allergic reactions. For people who have asthma and other respiratory conditions, the dust from termite damage as well as contamination from their droppings can interfere with the quality of air in the home.

Fungi

Termites may carry fungi with them via their saliva, droppings, and other debris that they use to construct mud tubes. As a termite infestation gets worse, these mud tubes can harbour large concentrations of fungi.

You may notice yourself or others getting frequent headaches, skin rashes, or asthmatic reactions. These may be caused by fungi carried by the termites.

Mould

As termites consume wooden structures, they leave behind a humid mass that provides the perfect environment for mould growth. Mould produces spores that can reduce indoor air quality by causing irritation, allergies, headaches, and coughing.

Pesticides

Another way through which termites can be a nuisance is through the pesticides that are used to eliminate them. Indeed, many homeowners may respond to heavy termite infestations by using pesticides that have high chemical content. If used incorrectly, highly potent pesticides can pollute indoor air or pose risks to small children and pets.

To avoid these and other issues, contact local termite treatment services.