When you think of termites, the image of damaged wooden furniture probably pops into your mind.
But here’s the truth most homeowners don’t know: Termites don’t just eat wood — There are several Materials Termites Attack they can destroy many other things inside your home.
And the worst part?
They do it silently, slowly, and without any visible warning signs.
If you believe your home is safe just because you don’t have much wooden furniture, this blog will open your eyes to the hidden risks.
Let’s break down the surprising materials termites can damage.
Why Termites Attack More Than Just Wood
Termites survive on two essentials:
1. Cellulose – the natural substance found in plants
2. Moisture – dampness that helps them thrive and multiply
While cellulose is abundant in wood, it’s also present in many everyday items you use at home.
That’s why termites spread far beyond doors and furniture, attacking materials you’d never expect.
1. Paper, Cardboard & Packaging Materials
Paper-based items are a termite buffet because they’re loaded with cellulose.
This includes:
- Cardboard boxes
- Newspapers
- Old photo albums
- Packing materials
- Stored documents and files
Termites can quietly hollow out entire bundles of papers without you noticing — until they crumble in your hands.
2. Books, Files & Important Documents
Books are a top favourite for termites. They feed on:
- Pages
- Binding glue
- Hardcovers
Important files kept in wooden cupboards, damp storerooms, or untouched corners for years are at the highest risk.
Many homeowners discover damage only during crucial moments — and by then, the documents are beyond repair.
3. Clothes Made of Natural Fibres
Yes, termites can damage clothes too — especially those made of:
- Cotton
- Wool
- Linen
- Silk
If these clothes are stored in dark, humid cupboards, termites settle in easily.
By the time you notice, entire sections may be eaten or weakened.
4. Electrical Wiring & Cables
This is one of the most shocking types of termite damage.
Termites don’t eat plastic — but they chew through the outer layer to create pathways.
This exposes the inner wires, leading to:
⚠ Short circuits
⚠ Flickering lights
⚠ Complete power failure
⚠ Fire hazards
Many electrical faults at home trace back to termite damage.
5. Wall Materials — Plaster, Drywall & Paint
As termites move through walls looking for moisture, they weaken:
- Plaster
- Drywall sheets
- Wall paint
- Skirting areas
- You may start noticing:
- Bubbling or peeling paint
- Hollow sounds when you tap the wall
- Small cracks
- Mud tubes
These subtle signs indicate deep internal damage.
6. Insulation Materials — Foam, Thermocol & Sheets
Though termites may not eat insulation, they tunnel through it to reach food sources.
This increases wall weakness and reduces insulation efficiency — especially in older homes.
Why This Hidden Damage Is Dangerous
Termites are silent invaders. Most people discover the damage only when:
- A wall or door suddenly breaks
- Electrical appliances stop working
- Documents crumble like powder
- Cupboards or boxes collapse
By that time, the repair cost can run into thousands.
How to Protect Your Home From Hidden Termite Damage
Here are essential termite-prevention steps every homeowner should follow:
1. Get regular professional termite inspections
Catching termites early prevents long-term structural damage.
2. Control moisture inside your home
Fix damp walls, plumbing leaks, and ventilation problems.
3. Store papers and documents safely
Use airtight, termite-proof containers instead of keeping them on the floor or in old cupboards.
4. Opt for pre-construction termite treatment
This forms a protective barrier under your home’s foundation.
5. Do post-construction treatment every 2–3 years
This ensures continuous protection and prevents colony growth.
Final Thoughts: Termites Attack More Than You Think
Termites are not just wood destroyers — Materials Termites Attack are your documents, clothes, wiring, walls, and precious belongings.
Knowing this helps you stay one step ahead and protect your home before termites spread.
If you truly want peace of mind, schedule a professional termite inspection and secure your home from all sides.