The two main types of termites that infest our homes are the subterranean termites and the drywood termites. Both can cause a huge amount of destruction and damage to your property and result in significant repair expenses.
Termite colonies can be massive, with over a million termites living and feeding on anything with cellulose, such as plants, wood, paper, cotton, and even clothing. Without proper awareness, your home may provide a perfect breeding ground for termites if there is poor ventilation. Termites are most active in moist environments, so a damp house creates an ideal setting.
If a damp, termite-infested log is found on the ground, moving it up and away from other wood will help kill those termites. Termites die when they lose contact with their colony, and by lifting the wood from the ground, you cut off their moisture supply, which also leads to their demise.
The Dangers Of Dampness And Mildew
The smell of a damp property is unpleasant, and such an environment is unhealthy to live in. Damp conditions create ideal settings for mould and fungi to grow, releasing spores and other harmful substances into the air. When inhaled, these spores can irritate the lungs, cause respiratory problems such as coughing and wheezing, and trigger allergies like sneezing, a runny nose, or skin rashes. They can also worsen asthma symptoms and lead to infections like bronchitis or pneumonia.
Apart from the health dangers, a poorly ventilated property suffers structural damage too. Dampness can cause timbers to bow or decay, boards to rot, and floors to lift. The cost of repairing such damage can be high, not to mention the possibility of a termite infestation.
Termites need moisture to stay hydrated and to process cellulose, so they are naturally attracted to damp environments. Moist wood is weaker and easier for termites to chew through; it also provides a perfect environment for nesting and colony expansion.
Ways To Ventilate Your Home
The simplest way to create ventilation is by opening windows and doors. Opening windows on opposite sides of a house promotes cross-ventilation, drawing in fresh air and expelling stale air. Exhaust fans help remove moisture in kitchens and bathrooms (especially in rooms with no windows), and dehumidifiers are useful in areas prone to dampness. Sub-floor ventilation is also beneficial for homes with crawl spaces, as it improves air circulation and prevents moisture buildup.
Don’t let dampness and mould ruin your health or your home, and don’t encourage termites or other moisture-loving pests like cockroaches and spiders into your space. Keep your house well-ventilated to prevent termite infestation from happening.
