Don’t Let Termite Damage Linger
Are you here because you searched for “How do you repair wood after termite damage”? House Repair and Care and Handyman Service understands that dealing with a termite infestation is stressful, and we know what to look for regarding signs of termite damage.
Termites infest approximately 600,000 American homes annually and cause thousands of dollars in structural damage. These tiny terrors eat away at any wooden structure, including many of your home’s basic building materials.
If you have recently exterminated invading termites or found termite damage in your home, you should have repairs performed as soon as possible. Without repairs, you risk the structural integrity of your home’s walls, floors, and ceilings.
If you eliminated the termites before the infestation became too severe, you might be able to fix the termite damage yourself.
What Do Termites Look Like?
While there are several species of termites, the most common type in Tennessee is the subterranean termite. These termites prefer softwoods like pine, fir, and spruce as their primary food source, returning the food to their underground nest as ants do.
Subterranean termites may look different depending on their role in the colony. Alates are swarming termites that look similar to black ants with two long, dark wings. Worker and soldier termites have no wings and are cream-colored, though soldier termites stand out because of their brownish heads and large, pincer-like jaws.
Signs of Termite Damage
The most obvious sign of termite damage is the presence of termites in or around your home. Anything made with a wooden structure is at risk, from windows to decks and furniture.
If you see termites or signs of termites, you need to check your home for termite damage. Some signs of termite damage include:
- Discolored or decayed wood
- Trails of powdery substances or mud on your home’s surface
- Cracks or holes in your walls or ceilings
- Softwood with a spongy texture
- Hollow-sounding wood
Before repairing termite damage, you want to ensure that the termites are gone. Hire an exterminator service to rid your home of termites, then check any damaged areas to ensure they’re gone. Once your house is termite-free, you can repair any structural damage.
Methods for Repairing Wood After Termite Damage
Let’s look at how you can repair wood after a termite infestation to ensure structural integrity.
Repairing Termite Damage With Wood Hardeners
When applying wood hardeners to termite damage, the liquid soaks into the wood. After it fills in cracks created by burrowing termites, it hardens into an epoxy resin-like substance.
To correctly use wood hardener, choose the right hardening solution to match the type of wood you’re repairing. Allow it to set fully, then use a wood sealant over it. The combination of wood hardener and sealant will ensure that any termites still sticking around will not be able to damage your home further.
Repairing Termite Damage With Wood Fillers
Wood filler is similar to wood putty but is composed of wood dust, fibers, and water- or petroleum-based binding agents. Using wood filler to repair termite damage is a great option because it blocks gaps and tunnels created by termites with a rock-hard substance.
Check the wood filler for cracks or other damage during wet weather. Use wood filler if the damage is deeper than the surface. Pull out any loose or softened wood until you have a smooth surface. Fill the space with the wood filler, allow it to dry, then sand it down until it’s even to the touch.
How Do You Repair Wood After Termite Damage When Hardeners and Fillers Don’t Work?
If termites have done so much structural damage that wood hardeners or fillers can’t repair it, you may need to replace the wood.
Sometimes, the wood needing replacement is small enough to handle yourself. However, you’re likely better off hiring professional contractors for wood replacement. Trained contractors know how to recognize the severity of termite damage and repair or replace the affected wood while guaranteeing the structural integrity of your home.
After repairing termite damage, it’s essential to take preventative measures against future termite infestations.
Speak to a Specialist
Is termite damage threatening your home? Our trained specialists at House Repair and Care and Handyman Service know the answers to “How do you repair wood after termite damage?” and are more than happy to help. Call (931) 645-0382 or fill out our contact form today for termite repair in Tennessee!
