Effects of termites have been discussed mostly in concern with the residential buildings but these silent invaders do largely affect the commercial properties too. Interestingly, there are not many statistics on termite damage or infestation in commercial buildings since sharing it might affect the business adversely.

Termites in commercial properties might affect your building or even your products, given that you have a furniture shop or similar businesses. So how do we protect commercial properties from the little terrors? In this blog, we will discuss the details of termite damage in commercial buildings and the best ways to prevent the infestations.

What makes commercial buildings vulnerable? 

Residential buildings come with a lot of issues like frequently leaking pipes, gardens, and more which makes them an ideal place for termite infestation. But what attracts termites to infest commercial buildings?

• Large surface area in which the termite infestation can go unnoticed for months or even years.
• Products or machines occupy a large part of the floor area which makes it hard to notice the warning signs of termite infestation.
• Clutter and cardboard boxes are almost impossible to avoid in commercial buildings.
• Leaks and drainage problems that might go unrepaired for longer periods.
• Poor ventilation, especially in basements, crawl spaces, and storage areas.

Warning signs of termite damage 

Often the unique architecture and larger spaces of the commercial buildings make it hard to detect the termite infestations. But here are some telltale signs to keep an eye out for.

• Mud tubes: Subterranean termites pose the largest risk of termite damage to buildings. They use mud tubes to travel to the surface from their colonies in the soil underground. Look out for mud tubes along the foundation or basement walls.
• Stuck windows or doors: These are one of the signs that are easier to notice. If your windows or doors suddenly become hard to open and close then suspect termite activity.
• Hollow-sounding wood: Tap on wooden surfaces and if they sound hollow or you notice intricate holes on them then it might be a sign of termite infestation.
• Sagging floors or ceilings: Termites tend to damage the wood found below the ceilings and floors causing them to sag or buckle.
• Termite wings or droppings: If you find wooden pellet-type substances on the floor near wooden surfaces or wings scattered near your windows or light sources then it is time for inspection.

Also Read: How Termites Affect Business Profitability

Termite Prevention Tips for Commercial Properties

Termite infestation can soon turn devastating for your business since it comes with hidden costs. Apart from the bucks spent on termite damage repair, think about costs incurred due to business interruption, lost revenue, and relocation of employees whilst the repair process is done.

Hence it is better to take precautionary steps while you are one step ahead of these silent invaders. Here are some prevention tips that can save you the headache of dealing with termite infestation.

1. Regular inspections 

Professional termite inspections are the first line of defense against termites, be it for residential or commercial properties.

Commercial buildings often have hidden spaces like crawl spaces, storage areas or basements thus forget to inspect them for termites on your own. These professionals are trained to identify even the slightest sign of termites and also know to look for them in the right places.

Hire a professional from a trusted termite control company to have your property inspected at least once a year.

2. Remove wood-to-ground contact 

Subterranean termites usually enter the building through the wood that is in contact with the soil. Look for wooden surfaces that are touching the ground like fences or support beams and then replace them with metal or concrete equivalents.

3. Find and eliminate moisture 

Regularly look for leaks or drainage issues and have them fixed as soon as possible. Often HVAC problems also result in moisture buildup which can make your building an ideal stay for termites. 

4. Use treated wood 

If you are constructing a new building for your business, start prevention steps early by using treated wood wherever possible. The termite-resistant wood will repel the termites thus offering inherent protection to your building.

5. Learn the building codes 

While constructing a new building, especially in an area with high termite activity, it might be best to find the codes and construction tips that will help avoid termite infestation in your building. This might involve instructions on where to use treated wood and the coatings to be used on wood to avoid termites.

6. Provide better ventilation 

Proper ventilation will allow sunlight to enter the building and also eliminate excess moisture buildup. Make sure to provide proper ventilation, especially in cluttered areas like basements and crawl spaces.

7. Try preventive treatments 

Liquid soil treatments and bait systems are some of the common termite prevention treatments that you can employ to prevent termites from attacking your building. These treatments might require renewal or constant monitoring which is still less work when compared to the stress of termite damage.

HiTech Termite Control 

Don’t wait until termites cause costly damage to your business - schedule regular inspections and preventative treatments. Contact us, experts in termite inspection, control, and prevention, to safeguard your building from these silent destroyers today. Visit our website here.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes commercial buildings vulnerable to termites?

 Large spaces, clutter, poor ventilation, and leaks make it easier for termites to go unnoticed and cause damage in commercial buildings.

 2. What are common signs of termite damage?

Look for mud tubes, stuck windows or doors, hollow-sounding wood, sagging floors or ceilings, and termite wings or droppings.

 3. How often should I inspect my commercial property for termites?

 It's recommended to have a professional inspection at least once a year to catch any signs of termite activity early.

 4. What steps can I take to prevent termite infestations?

 Regular inspections, removing wood-to-ground contact, eliminating moisture, using treated wood, providing better ventilation, and applying preventive treatments can help.

 5. Why is it important to address moisture issues in termite prevention?

 Moisture attracts termites, so fixing leaks and drainage problems helps make your building less inviting to these pests.

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