Old and antique homes have a unique charm that tends to attract us to them. But research suggests that the possibility of termite infestation in older homes is higher than in newly constructed homes.

So, yes, older homes are at a higher risk of termite infestation. Termite damage repair also costs more for older homes. If you have been thinking of purchasing an older home or are an owner of one, this article is for you.

Why Do Termites Attack Older Homes?

There are many reasons why termites seem to attack older homes more. Some of them include:

The Building Materials Used

Termite control was not very advanced in the past. We now build our structures mostly with termite-treated wood but this was not the case then.

Older homes were usually built with untreated wood which makes them an easy target for termites. Even treated wood can lose effectiveness with time and hence untreated wood doesn’t stand a chance against termites.

Plumbing Problems

Old pipes tend to deteriorate and this can lead to moisture problems within the house. Moisture is the biggest ally of termites thus increasing the chance of their infestation.

If you notice problems like low water pressure or leaks around and beneath faucets, then it is time to get your plumbing system fixed. This might cost you some money but it is better than dealing with a termite infestation.

Also Read: Know Your Termite Species - Termites That Infest Homes

Foundation Problems

One of the most common problems that old house owners face is issues with the foundation. This can range from simple settlement cracks to damage on the footings.

Subterranean termites live under the soil and they can easily enter a house with foundation issues. It is vital to get it fixed immediately since termite damage paired with foundation issues can damage the structural integrity of the whole house.

Here are some signs of foundation damage.

• Cracks in interior and exterior walls
• Windows and doors that are hard to open and latch
• Uneven floors

Leaky Roofs

This is another common problem in older homes. Leakage from pipes can easily damage the roof and soon it can start to deteriorate. Once the wood in your ceiling is exposed to moisture, termites will follow. Eliminate leaks on your roof and provide sufficient ventilation for roof health.

Mold Problems

Mold damage in old houses can go undetected and unrepaired for a very long time. Mold in dark and damp places can easily attract termites. Other than this, mold can also cause health problems like coughing, sore throat, and infections in the lungs. Hence, it becomes important to get rid of mold as soon as possible.

Wood Rot

With time, wood in older homes experiences wear and tear and also gets exposed to various climates. This can lead to the rotting of the wood which can easily be mistaken for termite damage and vice versa. A professional will be able to tell the difference and this is one of the many reasons why you should schedule regular termite inspections for your house.

Basements

Older homes tend to have big basements or cellars for storage. With time, basements and cellars become musty spaces that have moldy ceiling panels. These are also spaces of minimum human activity in the house making them the perfect place for the termites to start a colony.

Eliminate moisture and mold in your basement and remodel it, if possible. Schedule regular termite inspections and make it a point to check the basements for termite activity. Unnoticed termite activity in these areas will allow the termites to eat your home inside and out.

Plantations Near the House

Older homes also tend to have bigger garden areas which means more wood for the termites to feast on. Here are some measures to avoid termite activity when you have a garden area.

• Get rid of rotting wood.
• Remove trees that can damage the foundation because of the roots.
• Remove branches that touch the house.
• It would be better to provide a 15-inch clearance between the house and the plantation area.
• Remove fallen leaves before they start to rot.

Previous Termite Infestation

Eliminating a termite infestation is a hard job, especially when it is severe. Often fumigation termite control is considered to be the ultimate measure to treat the entire home. Termites tend to come back to haunt the previously infested places thus making regular termite inspection necessary.

Older houses usually have a history of termite infestation. This means that the house has reasons that encourage termite attacks and it could still be the case. If the house has a prior history of termite damage, then start with the prevention measures immediately.

Also Read: Should You Get a Termite Treatment Done Before Moving into a New House?

HiTech Termite Control

Before purchasing an antique or old house, make sure to get it inspected by a termite control professional. We offer free termite inspection and termite control services. We provide all kinds of termite control services like fumigation termite control and non-fumigation termite control in Bay Area homes. Know more about us here.