Termites are arguably the most destructive pest invasion your home can have as it feeds on wood, and when left unattended, can ravage your home’s furniture, walls, floors, ceilings, and its very foundation.
Since the pesky dwellers are nearly impossible to detect with the naked eye, most people notice them only when the damage has been done. However, aside from worrying about the state of your living space, many people also worry about whether or not it has detrimental health risks to humans.
In that regard, this article aims to discuss the safety and health issues that termites may pose beyond the destruction it can cause to your home.
What are the Safety Issues?
Termites feed on cellulose that wood is made of, so any wooden structures or objects in residential or commercial establishments are vulnerable to termite infestation. When gone unnoticed and untreated, it can ravage a house or building, which can significantly weaken the entire structural integrity and make it unsafe to occupy as it is prone to collapse.
While it targets wood, it can also do damage to the electrical wiring of a building as termites travel from every corner of the property in search of wood, which can also cause electrical accidents or potentially start a fire.
That’s why it’s essential to watch out for tell-tale signs of a termite colony residing in your home, which manifests through termite droppings, tunnels in wood, the presence of white ants, stiff doors or windows, and low, clicking sounds coming from walls.
Once you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to call a terminator immediately to address the problem before it gets out of hand.
What are Health Issues?
Termites can bite humans, and although it may sting, it inflicts no toxicity or diseases that can be harmful. However, people residing in termite-infested homes may struggle from allergic reactions or asthma attacks caused by the termite’s droppings, and the ventilation system from your house may contribute to the dispersion of the dust from termite nests.
Another issue it poses is its ability to spread mold. As it crawls all over your house in search of wood to eat, it leaves a trail of mold that can grow and spread throughout your home. When it travels in the air, it can cause severe illnesses once the mold lands on your skin or is inhaled.
In that regard, people suffering from asthma and skin diseases can have worsened conditions and develop into dermatitis, eye infection, and itching, along with the risk of having fungal infections. However, not all molds are the same, and some are more dangerous than others. On the worst-case scenario, toxic compounds released by molds can even cause neurological or lung problems when exposed in extreme quantities for an extended period.
On that note, it’s crucial to call your nearest and trusted termite control service provider immediately after noticing signs of termite invasions to avoid the detrimental effects it poses to your house and your health.
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