HOW TO DETERMINE IF A HOME HAS WATER DAMAGE OR TERMITE DAMAGE?

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage Ventura

HOW TO DETERMINE IF A HOME HAS WATER DAMAGE OR TERMITE DAMAGE?

Homeowners can easily confuse termite damage and water damage. Termites can create high – moisture nests and often similar to signs of water damage. We see two types of damage in our homes: termite damage and water damage, but the question is “how can you tell the difference between the two?”

Water damage and termite damage can exhibit characteristics that make it very difficult for the homeowner to discern the difference. Treatment and repairs for the two are very different. Chemicals used in the extermination of termites require special certifications, licensing and protective gear. When termite damage is involved in a water damage incident, SERVPRO of Ventura professionals can manage the entire project, including having a licensed and bonded exterminator mitigate the termite infestation and damage.

HOW TO TELL WATER DAMAGE FROM TERMITE DAMAGE?

WATER DAMAGE

Water damage to wood often creates square-shaped “cells” in the wood. This pattern can be called “cubicle rot” referring to cube-shaped square cells. It is also referred to as “alligatoring” because the square shaped cells resemble an alligator’s back. The wood expands and cracks with the increased water content.

TERMITE DAMAGE

Underground termites devour wood, they feed along the softer springwood, avoiding the harder summerwood. Inspection of a cross-section of a tree reveals lighter – colored rings, which are springwood, and darker – colored rings, which are summerwood.

Drywood termites consume wood along and across the grain. They carve out large cavities or galleries for their nests, and these galleries are connected by tunnels. They have smaller colonies, so cause less damage.

SERVPRO of Ventura provides water damage restoration services. Our tea, of professionals carry numerous certification and possess years of experience. They are skilled at identifying water damage. Some water damage is hidden between walls or under flooring and disguised as termite damage.

If you have any questions about water damage, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Ventura at (805) 656-3911.