Termites can cause significant structural damage over time, but total destruction doesn’t happen overnight. On average, it can take 3 to 8 years for a termite colony to cause severe damage, depending on the size of the colony and the construction of the home. But signs of damage may appear much sooner if the infestation is large and goes unnoticed.

Factors that affect how fast termites destroy a house include

• Colony size – Larger colonies eat through wood faster.

• Wood type – Softer woods are more vulnerable.

• Moisture – Damp environments attract termites & speed up damage.

• Home materials – Older or untreated wood is more susceptible.

Regular inspections & early treatment are key to preventing serious damage.