How Much Does Termite Damage Cost to Repair in Atlanta, GA?

Minor Termite Damage

In the early stages of a termite infestation, you might notice discoloration, bending, and buckling in your walls and floors. It can also cause paint to chip and bubble. This damage may appear superficial, but it’s a sign of deeper problems below. Depending on the extent of damage, you could spend a few hundred dollars or more to repair it.

Severe Termite Damage

Structural damage is dangerous, which means repairing it is urgent – and the repair costs will reflect that. The extent of structural damage will determine the price, and it can vary wildly from case to case, but will almost always cost thousands of dollars. 

Every year, termites cost American home and business owners around $5 billion in damage. Here in Atlanta, GA, we’re at a particularly high risk of termite infestation due to our warm and humid climate. They feed on cellulose, a polymer found in wood, so any exposed wood is at risk for infestation – from patio furniture to woodpiles to buildings.

How Quickly Do Termites Damage Homes?

Termite damage doesn’t happen overnight – but it does happen fast. Even worse, termites can do a lot of damage without being discovered. A mature colony can consume up to a pound of wood per day and cause extensive damage to a home within years.

Early Signs of Termite Problems

By the time you notice signs of termite damage, the infestation is already well underway. All the same, the earlier you catch it, the more damage you can prevent. Keep an eye out for:

• Mud tubes (from the ground to the structure)
• Droppings (called frass; it resembles sawdust)
• Shed wings (from flying reproducer termites)
• Swarmer termites (winged termites looking for a place to build a new colony)

If you see any of these signs, call a termite exterminator to take a look right away.

How to Avoid Termite Damage in Your Home

The best way to avoid termite damage is to keep up with regular inspections. A professional knows all the places to look for termites and termite damage and can help you make proactive decisions about protecting your property from these extremely destructive pests. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of care.