You thought you and your family found the home of your dreams, only now it seems you moved into a nightmare property. Not only did the seller not disclose termite damage, but you also noticed signs of a termite infestation. Perhaps the termite company did not do a good job.
HowStuffWorks shares different termite types. One of the most favorable ways to get rid of pests for good is to know what kind of pest you have.
Drywood termites
If you notice signs of termites living above ground, you could have drywood termites. Common to the Southeast United States, these termites get their moisture from the air and make themselves at home in attics, window frames and doorways. Even if infested wood looks fine on the outside, it may have a crumbling interior.
Subterranean termites
Subterranean termites reside underground in colonies and groups. They may tunnel 150 feet for a source of wood, and they cause most of the termite damage in the U.S. Because subterranean colonies may have as many as 1 million members, they may chew through 15 pounds of wood a week, demolishing insulation, plastic pipes, support beams and home foundations along the way.
Formosan termites
The termites that wreak the most havoc, Formosan termites make themselves at home in South and North Carolina and Louisiana. Experts think the pests scattered across the U.S. through infested wooden railroad stakes. These termites lay claim to cellulose-based goods like wood, and they take over live trees and boats.
Once you know what kind of termites you have, you have a better idea of how to approach your legal case and protect your rights as you reclaim your home.
