Are Termites In Los Angeles County Dangerous?

It can be startling to discover that you have a termite problem inside your Los Angeles home, and it can raise many questions. The question we're going to focus on today is: "Are termites dangerous?" We'll look at this question from a medical and financial standpoint to determine how bad it is when termites get into Los Angeles properties. Have a read.

Do Termites Bite Humans?

Termites eat cellulose which is found in wood—not humans. While a termite has mouthparts that can easily break the skin of a human, it doesn't have any reason to bite you. Soldier termites (the protectors of a termite colony) may try to pinch you, but their pincers aren't made for doing battle with an animal your size. So, do termites bite humans? No. They have the ability to do so, but they just don't, so you don't have to worry about termite bites. 

Do Termites Spread Diseases?

There is currently no link between termites and the spread of human pathogens. These insects are not considered vectors for bacterial diseases, so you can easily take this one off your list of concerns.

Do Termites Cause Any Sickness At All?

It is possible to have a termite allergy. If drywood termites get into your home, the frass they produce can cause respiratory issues. This is really the only way termites present a health issue.

The Real Danger Termites Present

You're probably aware that termites damage wood in Los Angeles homes. This is why many property owners invest in professional termite protection long before they have a termite problem. But how bad are termites, really?

• Termites in the United States cost U.S. property owners more than $5 billion annually. These insects are a big problem. If you're hoping to cash in on the equity of your home during retirement, these insects could ruin that plan.
• The damage caused by termites accumulates over time. When you start to realize you have a termite infestation, it is likely to be when walls start to bulge, floors begin to sink, and ceilings begin to dip down. You may notice honeycomb dents in baseboards or in the wood of door and window frames. You may see your hardwood floors start to buckle. Windows may start to open and close without any resistance. Doors may be difficult to close.
• You can have a million termites feeding on your Los Angeles home and not realize it. These insects are incredibly secretive. A termite infestation can go on for years, right under your nose.  
• Repairing termite-damaged wood can be very difficult. Often, the wood around the damaged wood must be removed as well. This can end up being a large re-construction job. It is far better to invest in proactive termite protection than it is to repair termite-damaged wood.

Termite Control In Los Angeles

Okay. Are termites dangerous? While you don't have to worry about termite bites and the threat of sickness is low, termites can damage your property. The best way to protect your property is to invest in professional termite control. We can help you with that. Reach out to HomeShield Pest Control and request a termite inspection to get started. We'll guide you in selecting the right solution for your Los Angeles property.