What to Do if You Have Termite Damage: Termite Damage Repair

Learning that you have a termite infestation in your home can be a terrifying experience. Termites can be highly destructive, causing significant damage to wooden structures, crops, and landscaping features. The damage these pesky pests cause can impact your home’s structural integrity and, ultimately, the resale value. Taking prompt and effective action is crucial in mitigating further harm and restoring your home.

Smouse Brothers are the leading experts in foundation repair and waterproofing. Our licensed termite repair professionals provide helpful tips on how to deal with these stubborn insects.

Why Termite Damage Shouldn’t be Taken Lightly

Termite infestation is a serious problem that shouldn’t be taken lightly, and here’s why:

• Structural damage: Termites are known for their ability to cause significant damage to wooden structures. They feed on cellulose found in wood and other plant-based materials. If left unchecked, termite infestations can compromise the structural integrity of buildings, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards.
• Financial impact: Termite damage repair can be expensive. Homeowners may incur substantial costs in treating the infestation, replacing damaged wood, and implementing preventive measures to avoid future problems. The longer the infestation persists, the more significant the financial impact.
• Property value: Termite infestations can significantly reduce the resale value of a property. Prospective buyers are often wary of purchasing a property with a history of termite problems or visible damage. Addressing termite issues promptly is essential to maintaining and potentially increasing property value.
• Insurance issues: Some insurance policies may not cover termite repair, or coverage may be limited. It is crucial to check insurance policies and, if necessary, invest in additional termite protection or pest control coverage to mitigate potential financial losses.

Assessing the Extent of Termite Damage

Accurately assessing the extent of the damage caused by termite infestation helps determine the best course of action. Look for damaged wood, hollow-sounding structures, mud tubes, and common signs of termite activity. However, there are hidden issues that an untrained eye may miss. This is why getting a professional termite inspection is advisable to evaluate whether the home’s foundation, walls, studs and other crucial elements have been affected. An inspection provides insights into the required repairs and overall cost.

The experienced professionals at Smouse Bros will start the inspection by identifying the spots with obvious infestations and taking remedial action to prevent future infestations. After a comprehensive inspection of every inch of your home and the grounds, we will apply a custom treatment to protect your home. Our team will recommend the best treatment technique based on your home’s construction type. Once the treatment is applied, we will issue a warranty to cover the cost of the treatment should the problem recur.

Hiring Professionals VS. DIY Termite Damage Repair

If you have extensive experience in DIY renovation and solid carpentry skills, you may attempt DIY termite damage repair. However, before you start any project, ensure every termite has been removed, and there is no threat of future infestation. If the home’s structural integrity has been compromised, it is best to leave the restoration work to professionals.

Here are some of the benefits of hiring professionals over DIY termite damage repairs:

• Expertise and experience: Professionals have specialized knowledge and experience dealing with termite infestations and damage. They understand the behavior of termites and can accurately assess the extent of the damage.
• Comprehensive inspection: Professionals conduct thorough inspections to identify all affected areas, including hidden or hard-to-reach spaces. DIY efforts may overlook certain areas, leading to incomplete repairs and potential ongoing issues.
• Customized treatment plans: Professionals can develop tailored treatment plans based on the specific type of termite, the infestation’s severity, and the property’s construction. DIY solutions may lack the precision to eradicate termites effectively and prevent future infestations.
• Insurance and guarantees: Many professional pest control services offer warranties or guarantees for their work, providing peace of mind that the issue will be effectively resolved. DIY repairs may not come with such assurances, and mistakes may lead to additional costs.

Expert Termite Damage Repair in Southwest, MO and Northwest, AR

Termites are every homeowner’s worst nightmare. These pests can damage wooden features such as wall studs and rafters and eat away at your home’s foundation over time. If you recently learned that termites have invaded your home, it is crucial to consult experienced termite repair experts.

At Smouse Bros, our termite specialists boast a proven track record in repairing termite damage in Southwest, MO and Northwest, AR, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Call Today: (417) 988-8201

Featured Image: Raja Sopan Purba / Shutterstock

There is a reason to be concerned if you have found cracks and gaps in your foundation. Depending on the severity of the damage and its location, foundation issues can cause structural problems throughout your home. These may range from visible shifts in the exterior walls to uneven floors, doors, and windows that no longer close properly. Fixing these issues on time is crucial to avoid further deterioration, leading to compromised stability of the home and irreparable damage.

The foundation repair experts at Smouse Brothers detail the common signs to watch out for and how to spot foundation damage.

Common Signs of Foundation Damage To Look Out For

The following are common signs of foundation issues to look out for:

Interior Wall Cracks

One of the most common signs of foundation issues is cracks in your internal walls. Specifically, vertical or horizontal cracks in the interior walls, especially near doors and windows, can indicate foundation issues signs. Pay attention to the size, location, and progression of these cracks. Cracks wider than a quarter-inch and diagonally-shaped are signs of structural issues. Call a professional to inspect the walls and recommend appropriate remedial action.

Signs of a Sinking ground

Take time to inspect the perimeter of your home to check for signs of sinking ground. If you spot a sinking spot, you could have a severe problem on your hands. Experts reveal any sinking around the house happens due to severe water leakage or drainage issues. These issues may result from the terrain’s imbalance due to soil expansion or contraction, eventually impacting the home foundation. Have a professional from Smouse Bros take immediate action.

Smell of Mildew

Mildew thrives in damp and humid environments. Moisture can seep through cracks and create conditions conducive to mold growth. A persistent musty or moldy smell inside your home can indicate excess moisture, possibly related to foundation problems. If you have noticed this sign of foundation damage, contact a professional to undertake a comprehensive inspection.

Uneven Floors

If you notice that your floors are sloping or uneven, it could be a sign of foundation settlement or shifting. When the foundation shifts unevenly, it causes the floors above to slope, dip, or become noticeably uneven. Over time, the soil beneath the foundation may settle unevenly, leading to shifts in the foundation and subsequent floor unevenness. Use a level to check the floors’ flat, and pay attention to any noticeable changes over time.

How Foundation Damage Can Be Spotted

Once your home starts showing foundation issues signs, it is crucial to seek a professional inspection to determine the extent of the damage and the cause. The licensed repair team at Smouse Bros will start by inspecting the exterior parts of the property for any visible cracks in the exterior walls, especially near corners and around windows and doors. We will also check for any gaps or separations in the brick or siding of the house.
Afterward, our professionals will inspect interior walls for cracks, especially near doors and windows. They will also look for doors and windows that are difficult to open or close or have visible gaps and use a level to check if the floors are level. The team may also undertake a thorough crawl space inspection and examine the roof for possible damage. Finally, we will evaluate the exterior landscape and check for water pooling near the foundation.

Why Foundation Damage Is Serious

Your home is meant to be a haven for you, your family, and your guests. This is why foundation issues should not be taken lightly. Ignoring signs of foundation damage can result in compromised integrity of your house, leading to costly repairs.

Here are some reasons why foundation damage is a severe problem:

• Structural integrity: The foundation provides support for the entire structure. Ignoring foundation damage leads to poor structural integrity and potential collapses.
• Safety concerns: Foundation damage can pose safety risks to the occupants of the building. Cracks, shifts, and settlements can create hazardous conditions, including the potential for tripping and falling.
• Increased damage over time: Foundation issues worsen if not addressed promptly. Ignoring the problem may result in more extensive and costly damage, making repairs more challenging and expensive in the long run.
• Impact on property value: Foundation problems can significantly decrease the value of your property. When it is time to sell, prospective buyers may hesitate to invest in a property with known foundation issues.

Speak to the Foundation Damage Experts in SW Missouri and NW Arkansas

Your home’s foundation provides crucial support for all other home structures. A damaged foundation can trigger a host of costly and dangerous issues, such as sloped floors, cracked walls, sagging ceilings, and plumbing issues. If you have noticed any foundation issues signs on your Missouri or Arkansas property, contact experienced professionals to undertake immediate repairs.

At Smouse Bros, we pride ourselves on our expertise in foundation repair and restoration. Our skilled team is dedicated to assessing and addressing your home’s foundation damage promptly and effectively. We utilize state-of-the-art technologies and proven methods to ensure a comprehensive, lasting solution. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Featured Images: Francesco Scatena / Jerry-Rainey | Shutterstock