Termites are one of the most destructive pests a homeowner can face. These tiny-but-mighty insects can quietly chew through wood, flooring, drywall, and more—causing thousands of dollars in damage before you even realize they’re there.
Unfortunately, termite damage isn’t usually covered by homeowners insurance. And once you see visible signs, it’s often just the tip of the iceberg.
The good news? There are ways to help prevent a termite infestation, and if termites have already made themselves at home, Mister Fix-It is here to help repair the damage.
Why Termites Are a Big Concern for Missouri Homeowners
Here in Missouri, we’re especially prone to subterranean termites, which live underground and sneak into homes through even the tiniest cracks. They’re active year-round but become especially aggressive in spring and summer, when warmth and humidity create ideal breeding conditions.
Termites feed on cellulose—found in wood, paper, and even some fabrics—and once they establish a colony, they can silently eat away at your home’s structure for months or even years. Often, the first signs of trouble—like sagging floors or bubbling paint—don’t appear until extensive damage has already been done.
Wood, part of roof house after attack of termite. Peril from insect concept.
How to Prevent a Termite Infestation
Prevention is always easier than repairs. Here are several practical, proactive steps you can take to protect your home this summer:
1. Keep Wood and Soil Separate
One of the most common ways termites gain access to homes is through direct contact between wood and soil. If you have wood touching the ground—such as deck posts, porch steps, or siding—you’re creating an open invitation for termites.
What to do:
- Keep mulch at least 6–12 inches away from your foundation.
- Store firewood, lumber, and wooden furniture off the ground and away from your home.
- Make sure fence posts or garden bed borders aren’t resting directly in soil unless they’re treated for pest resistance.
2. Eliminate Excess Moisture Around Your Foundation
Termites love moisture. In fact, they’re drawn to damp wood and areas where water collects. Poor drainage, leaky spigots, and clogged gutters all create ideal conditions for a colony to thrive.
How to stay dry and termite-free:
- Keep your gutters clean and ensure water flows away from your foundation.
- Repair leaky outdoor faucets, hoses, or sprinkler systems promptly.
- Grade soil so that rainwater naturally drains away from your home.
- Use a dehumidifier in crawlspaces or basements with high humidity.
3. Seal Up Entry Points
Even though termites usually enter from underground, they can also access your home through tiny gaps and cracks in the foundation, siding, or around utility pipes. Subterranean termites are masters at slipping through unnoticed.
Inspection tips:
- Check for cracks in your foundation and seal them with waterproof caulk.
- Use mesh screens over vents and around crawlspace access points.
- Seal gaps around water lines, HVAC units, and electrical conduit where they enter the home.
4. Schedule Regular Inspections
Because termites are so good at staying hidden, professional inspections are the best way to catch early signs of activity. A pest control expert can spot subtle indicators—like mud tubes, swarmers, or hollow-sounding wood—that homeowners might miss.
We recommend:
- Annual inspections, especially if your home is older or has had termite issues before.
- Acting quickly if you see soft, sagging wood—that’s a red flag.
What If You Already Have Termite Damage?
Termite infestations can be overwhelming, but don’t worry—you’re not alone. Once pest control professionals have removed the termites, Mister Fix-It can step in to repair the damage.
Our skilled team handles everything from minor cosmetic fixes to major structural repairs, including:
- Replacing rotted or hollowed-out wood in walls, floors, and ceilings
- Reinforcing framing, beams, and subflooring to ensure your home is safe and stable
- Repairing damaged drywall, trim, and baseboards
- Rebuilding exterior elements like porch posts, staircases, or decking that have been affected
We’ll assess the full scope of the damage, explain your options clearly, and get to work restoring your home—quickly, affordably, and with expert care.
Why Choose Mister Fix-It for Termite Damage Repairs?
We’re home repair pros, and we’ve been trusted by Saint Charles and Saint Louis homeowners for years. Just check out our reviews! Whether you’ve just dealt with an infestation or are concerned about early signs of damage, we’re ready to help.
What you can expect from us:
- Fast and honest estimates
- Skilled craftsmanship you can count on
- Friendly, local service—we’re your neighbors!
- A focus on not just fixing the damage, but helping you prevent it in the future
Think You Have Termite Damage? Call Mister Fix-It Today.
If you’ve recently had termites or just want peace of mind, don’t wait for the damage to get worse. Contact Mister Fix-It for a professional repair assessment and a free quote.
We’re here to help restore your home—and make sure it stays protected for years to come.