Wood Destroying Organisms

Wood destroying organisms are found across the entire United States.  As wood absorbs moisture the wood swells.  With high humidity the porous walls within the wood becomes saturated with water and becomes susceptible to decay.  Wood in well constructed buildings rarely have a moisture content high enough to cause decay.  The most common reason for wood decay from water saturation comes from when the wood is in contact with the ground or other external sources of moisture.  Plumbing leaks, rain seepage, or condensation can be a contributing factor.

Dry wood is less likely to be attacked by most types of wood destroying organisms

Wood-inhabiting insects can be divided into those that use wood as a food source like termites and wood-boring beetles, and those that use it for shelter such as carpenter ants and bees.

Wood destroying organisms are found in all parts of the country.  Some are very localized.  Although these organisms are fairly common they can cause varying degrees of structural damage.