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According to a recent survey, a staggering 76% of homeowners experience a pest problem every year. As our mild winters and rainy summers can result in pest population explosions, the risk of a pest infestation is much higher in Houston compared to other areas of the country.
If that’s not scary enough, nearly50% of pest infestations cause structural damage to homes. Since standard homeowners insurance doesn’t generally cover this type of damage, a pest infestation may affect not only your home but also your wallet. To protect both your home and wallet, let’s take a look at some pests that could wreak havoc on your home before you even realize what’s going on.
Termites and Your Home’s Foundation
Termites are notorious for causing costly damage to buildings. They can easily eat straight through wood, meaning they could damage a large portion of your house framing, floor joists, and foundation’s support beams before they’re discovered. When structural components become weak, it’s only a matter of time until the entire home is affected.
Because termites can cause a lot of damage very fast, it’s extremely important to reduce the risk of atermite infestation as much as possible. One thing we know is that termites thrive in warm and damp conditions. Thus, if you see any standing water anywhere near your home, make sure that you inspect your property carefully. If you cannot identify where the water is coming from, a good idea would be to have your crawl space and foundation inspected by anexperienced foundation repair professional, who can easily determine whether the source of the problem is a leaky pipe, poor drainage, clogged gutters, pool leaks, or another issue. As well, calling in a pest control professional as soon as you observe the first signs of a termite infestation could help prevent major structural damage to your home.
Powderpost Beetles and Your Home’s Foundation
As wood is a versatile building material, it’s been used in many Houston homes. Unfortunately, that means the wood in your home could be damaged by certain species of pests, such aspowderpost beetles.
These insects can destroy wood much like termites do. But the biggest problem is that they live and breed in wood, which means you cannot actually see them. So, it might be quite difficult to realize when you have an infestation. However, there are two main indicators of a potential powderpost beetle infestation: the holes created by their larvae as they chew their way out of wood and the small piles of fine sawdust that will appear as a result.
The good news is that these insects prefer wood that hasn’t been sealed, painted, or treated with products that contain borate. Why is that good news? Simply because painting, sealing, or treating any apparent wood, including foundation beams in the case you have a pier and beam foundation, with appropriate products will allow you to keep these pests away from your Houston home. Â
Carpenter Ants and Your Home’s Foundation
Similar to termites and powderpost beetles, and as their name suggests, carpenter ants also damage wood. But contrary to popular belief,carpenter ants don’t eat wood. They do, however, build their nests into it. As these ants hollow out wood to create passageways and nests, a carpenter ant attack could cause serious damage to your Houston home.
Identifying a carpenter ant infestation is quite easy, as you’ll be able to see them wandering around your house. Carpenter ants are larger than regular ants and black in color, but they can also have a yellowish or reddish coloration. You’ll also find powdery sawdust under, around, or on top of infested wood and may even hear a soft crinkle sound coming from inside your walls, ceilings, or floors, especially at night.
Carpenter Bees and Your Home’s Foundation
We cannot talk about carpenter ants without mentioning carpenter bees as well. Similar to carpenter ants, carpenter bees burrow through wood to build tunnels and nests. However, they could also make use of other materials, including concrete. Carpenter bees don’t have the ability to penetrate concrete. But if you have a crack in your foundation, these bees can build their nest into it. Depending on how large the crack is or how many cracks there are, your foundation may become the perfect spot for a large colony, which could build a complex nest inside it. Eliminating these bees can be quite difficult, especially when they build their nest in an inaccessible place, like your foundation. In that case, multiple targeted treatments may be required over a lengthy period of time. When it comes to our homes (and life), pest infestations are no fun! Luckily, there are a few ways in which you can protect your Houston home (and life) from pests. Besidesscheduling a free foundation inspection with us, you can prevent pest infestations by simply eliminating excess water or moisture from your property, keeping the area around your foundation clear of plants and debris, sealing small cracks, holes, and gaps to make your home as airtight as possible, and contacting a pest control company whenever you have a pest problem.
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Do I call a foundation repair company if my house is leaning?
If your house is leaning, it’s crucial to call a foundation repair company. A leaning structure often indicates serious foundation issues that require immediate assessment and repairs to ensure your home’s safety and stability.
Are foundation repairs covered by insurance?
Foundation repairs may or may not be covered by insurance, depending on your specific policy and the cause of the damage. It's essential to check your homeowner's insurance policy or consult your insurance provider for clarification.
Can a foundation always be fixed?
Foundations can often be repaired; however, the specific circumstances and extent of damage will determine the feasibility and cost of repairs. Consulting a professional is essential for a thorough assessment to explore viable solutions.
Do foundation cracks need repair?
Foundation cracks need repair to prevent further damage to your home. Ignoring them can lead to structural issues, water intrusion, and costly repairs down the line. Addressing cracks early ensures your foundation remains stable and safe.
Can foundation cracks be repaired?
Foundation cracks can be repaired effectively. Various methods, such as epoxy injections and piering, are used to restore structural integrity and prevent further damage. Timely repairs are essential to protect your home and maintain its value.
Are foundation repairs tax deductible?
Foundation repairs may be tax deductible if they are necessary for maintaining the property or if they improve the value of your home. It's advisable to consult a tax professional to understand your specific eligibility and requirements.
Does foundation repair decrease home value?
Foundation repair does not decrease home value; in fact, addressing foundation issues proactively can enhance property value and attract potential buyers by ensuring a stable and safe living environment.
Are foundation repairs expensive?
Foundation repairs can be costly, but the expense is often necessary to prevent further damage to your home. The total cost will depend on the severity of the issues and the methods required for repair.
Are contractors needed to repair foundation?
Contractors are essential for repairing a foundation, as they have the expertise and tools necessary to accurately assess the damage and implement appropriate solutions. Professional contractors ensure the repairs are effective and comply with local codes.
Are foundation repairs permanent?
Foundation repairs are designed to be permanent solutions. When properly executed by experienced professionals, these repairs effectively address underlying issues and help maintain the structural integrity of your home over time.
Can foundation repair cause more damage?
Foundation repair can potentially cause more damage if not performed correctly. However, when carried out by qualified professionals, the process is designed to stabilize and protect your home's structure, minimizing any risks of additional issues.
Can foundation be repaired?
The foundation can indeed be repaired. Experienced professionals can assess the issues and implement effective solutions to restore stability and prevent further damage, ensuring the safety and longevity of your home.
Are foundation repairs worth it?
The worth of foundation repairs is significant, as they prevent further structural damage, enhance property value, and ensure the safety of your home. Investing in repairs can save you money in the long run by addressing issues early on.
Are foundation repairs covered by home insurance?
Foundation repairs may be covered by home insurance, but this depends on the cause of the damage and your specific policy. It's essential to review your coverage details and consult with your insurance provider for clarity.
Are foundation repairs covered by homeowners insurance?
Foundation repairs may or may not be covered by homeowners insurance, depending on the cause of the damage. If the foundation issues arise from a covered peril, such as a natural disaster, they are likely to be included in your policy.
Do foundation repairs last?
Foundation repairs can last for many years when performed by professionals, provided that underlying issues are properly addressed and maintained. Regular inspections and maintenance can further ensure the longevity of your foundation repairs.
Does foundation repair increase home value?
Foundation repair can increase home value by addressing structural issues that may deter potential buyers. A stable foundation is essential for safety and market appeal, making it a worthwhile investment for homeowners.
Do foundation repair companies fix leaks?
Foundation repair companies often address leaks as part of their services. They can identify the source of water intrusion and implement solutions to repair foundational issues, preventing further leaks and damage.
What signs indicate foundation issues?
Signs indicating foundation issues include cracks in walls or floors, doors and windows that stick, uneven or sloped floors, gaps around windows and doors, and water pooling near the foundation. Addressing these signs promptly can prevent further damage.
How long do foundation repairs take?
The duration of foundation repairs varies based on the severity of the issues and the methods used. Typically, repairs can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to complete.
Can DIY methods fix foundation problems?
DIY methods may provide temporary relief for minor foundation issues, but they often lack the effectiveness and durability of professional repairs. For significant problems, it’s best to consult experts to ensure long-lasting solutions.
What causes foundation cracks to develop?
Foundation cracks develop due to various factors, including soil movement, insufficient drainage, and extreme weather conditions. These elements can exert pressure on the foundation, leading to cracks that compromise the structural integrity of a home.
Are structural engineers involved in foundation repairs?
Structural engineers are indeed involved in foundation repairs, as they assess structural integrity, recommend appropriate solutions, and ensure compliance with safety standards during the repair process.
What is the cost range for foundation repairs?
The cost range for foundation repairs varies significantly based on factors such as the type and extent of damage, ranging from $2,000 to $7,000 on average. For specific estimates, it’s best to schedule an assessment.
How can I prevent future foundation issues?
Preventing future foundation issues involves maintaining proper drainage around your home, ensuring gutters are clean, and grading the soil to direct water away from the foundation. Regular inspections and addressing minor repairs promptly can also help avoid major problems.
What techniques are used in foundation lifting?
The techniques used in foundation lifting include slab jacking, piering, and foam injection. These methods effectively raise and stabilize the foundation by addressing the underlying soil issues and providing the necessary support.
Is financing available for foundation repairs?
Financing is available for foundation repairs. At Allied Foundation Repair, we offer various financing options to help homeowners manage the cost of essential foundation services.
What documents are needed for foundation repair estimates?
The documents needed for foundation repair estimates typically include the property deed, any previous inspection reports, photographs of visible issues, and structural plans if available. These help ensure an accurate assessment of the foundation's condition.
How often should foundation inspections occur?
Foundation inspections should occur at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice signs of foundation issues, such as cracks in walls or uneven floors. Regular assessments help prevent severe damage and costly repairs.
What warranties are offered on foundation repairs?
The warranties offered on foundation repairs typically include both a workmanship warranty and a material warranty, ensuring long-term protection for homeowners against defects or issues that may arise post-repair.
One Response
Great article! I found the tips really helpful and informative. Thanks for sharing