You can’t stop termites by using high-quality materials, doing regular maintenance, or following basic building rules. If not addressed early, this hidden threat can cause serious damage, leading to expensive repairs. Termites are responsible for about $5 billion in property damage each year in the U.S. (National Pest Management Association, 2023). These tiny insects, often called "silent destroyers," eat wood around the clock, weakening buildings without any obvious signs until the damage is severe.
So how do termites invade buildings, and why are they so destructive? Subterranean termites, the most harmful species, live in large underground colonies and enter buildings through small cracks in the foundation. Once inside, they tunnel through wood, drywall, and even insulation, feeding on anything that contains cellulose (Su & Scheffrahn, 2019). Because they stay hidden, many property owners don’t realize they have a problem until it’s too late. That’s why preventing termites during construction is much better than trying to get rid of them later.
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Ignoring termite prevention can lead to big problems for homeowners, builders, and businesses. As cities grow and temperatures rise, termite infestations are expected to become more common and severe across the U.S. (Evans & Forschler, 2021). To fight this, experts are coming up with better ways to keep termites out, like using special barriers, treating soil before construction, and even new technology to detect termites early.
With today’s advancements, builders can protect homes and buildings from termites more effectively than ever. However, many homes are still at risk because prevention steps are not always followed. By understanding how termites behave and using the latest prevention methods, we can make sure buildings stay safe and strong for years to come.
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