Did you know that termites cause billions of dollars in damage each year? Termites are silent destroyers that can go undetected for a long time. However, one knows about it when infestation is out of proportion. Termites are commonly associated with wood decay and can also wreak havoc with flooring tiles. Identification at an early stage can save a lot of dollars and preserve the integrity of one’s property. Let’s have a glimpse at the symptoms of termites in flooring tiles and how one can address them.
Cracked or Loosened Tiles: A Warning Sign
One of the most noticeable signs of termite damage on floor tiles is cracked or loosened tiles. Termites often eat through the wooden subfloor beneath tiles, causing instability. Over time, tiles may crack or become wobbly, and if you notice shifting or hairline cracks without a clear cause, it’s time to investigate further.
Hollow Sounds When Tapping Tiles
Another common sign is a thudding sound when knocked on with your fist. Termites infest wood under tile, producing gaps with no wood in them. Striking the tile with your fist produces a thudding sound, indicating a weakened base. What initially seems a minor issue could represent a sign of a larger infestation below.
Uneven or Warped Flooring
Termites can warp and unbalance your flooring. As termites burrow through your wood subfloor, its integrity is compromised. It can make your tiled flooring visibly buckle, sag, and have uneven parts. Not only will such a change make your flooring unsightly, but it can also become a source of danger.
Presence of Mud Tubes Near Tiles
Mud tubes form one of the most definite termite indications. Termites use them for commuting and protecting them from contact with air and predators. When noticed at tiled floors’ borders and baseboards, mud tubes form a definite sign of infestation. Mud tubes are most likely seen in wet and dark areas in your residence.
Unexplained Grout Damage
Termites may even infest between your tile and your grout. If your grout chips, disintegrates and dislodges for no apparent cause, termites can cause it. Termites’ access to the wood base below your tile can become more manageable through grout deterioration, and a big problem can arise.
Visible Termite Droppings (Frass)
Termite droppings, or frass, is yet another one to look out for. Small, spherical droppings in a pellet shape can build up in areas with weakened tile, baseboards, or corners. If frass accumulates under your flooring tile, it’s a sure sign that termites are actively feasting in that area.
Protect Your Home with Action
Termite damage can lead to critical structural defects in flooring tiles when not repaired promptly. In case of suspected infestation, timely intervention is vital. Termites have to be professionally handled for termination and to prevent future damage. For homeowners in Florida, Sarasota termite treatment professionals can provide effective intervention to resolve the problem.
Termite damage to flooring tile occurs more frequently than homeowners could have ever dreamed. From hollow sounds to cracked tiles, early indications can save homeowners a tremendous amount of costly work down the road. Don’t ignore them, for termites can cause havoc over the years. Protect your residence with awareness and a quick stop at a professional when symptoms occur. Remember, early intervention is key!
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