How much do you think you know about termites? When most people are asked about this particular pest, the first thing they usually mention is that they chew through wood. This is accurate - termites will eat through anything that contains cellulose, including wood, drywall, flooring, and wallpaper. When left untreated, termites may end up causing catstrophic structural damage to wood-framed homes. That’s why it is essential that you arrange termite treatment in Knoxville, TN, at the first sign of a termite problem. However, this knowledge about termites chewing through wood has unfortunately led to a dangerous misconception that brick homes are safe. Let’s explore why that is not necessarily the truth.
Can Termites Enter a Brick Home?
Homeowners often believe that if they have a brick home on a concrete slab, it is safe from termite infestation. This results in them choosing to forgo termite treatment in Knoxville, TN. It is true that a brick building makes things a little more difficult for termites, but it won’t be able to stop them from entering completely. Although termites can’t consume brick or concrete, they will readily target other cellulose-containing materials in your home—such as wooden furniture, cardboard boxes, and structural wood components. These may be enough to allow a termite colony to flourish despite your property being built from bricks. As soon as you see any sign of termite activity, you need to arrange for professional termite treatment in Knoxville, TN.
Signs of a Termite Infestation in a Brick Home
Many homeowners assume brick homes are immune to termites, but that’s a costly misconception. While brick offers a tough exterior, termites can still infiltrate through wooden framing, floor joists, and other structural components. Recognizing the signs early can help you avoid expensive damage and protect your investment.
A common early indicator of a termite infestation is the appearance of mud tubes along your home’s walls or foundation. These pencil-sized tunnels help termites travel while staying protected from light and predators. You might also notice discarded wings near windows or doors—left behind by swarmers looking to start a new colony. Hollow-sounding wood, blistering paint, and sagging floors are additional red flags that termites may be feeding on the interior structure.
Even in a brick home, regular inspections are crucial. If you suspect an issue, professional termite treatment in Knoxville, TN, can quickly identify and eliminate the problem. Local experts understand how termites operate in East Tennessee’s climate and offer effective, long-term solutions. Don’t wait until you see visible damage—early detection and treatment can save you thousands in repairs and protect the integrity of your brick home.
Termite Prevention Tips
It is important to have professional termite treatment in Knoxville, TN, in order to get rid of any infestation affecting your home, but there are additional steps that you can take to help lower the risk of termites attacking your home. These include the following:
- Avoid stacking firewood close to your home. It should be kept a minimum of 25 feet away from the foundation of your home.
- If you use mulch in your yard, it is important to keep it away from your home’s foundation.
- Termites are attracted to moisture, so it is important to repair any leaks as quickly as possible.
- If you want to build a deck, shed, or gazebo, be sure to use pressure-treated wood, which is resistant to termites.
- In addition to the initial termite treatment in Knoxville, TN, it is a good idea to have an annual termite inspection to make sure you catch any future infestations early.
Termites are a serious threat to any home—brick or otherwise. While brick exteriors may provide some level of deterrence, they do not offer complete protection against these destructive pests. Termites are persistent and will exploit any opportunity to reach the cellulose-rich materials inside your home. That’s why it’s vital not to fall into the trap of thinking your brick home is immune.
The key to protecting your property is vigilance. Watch for early signs of infestation and take preventative steps to reduce your risk. Most importantly, arrange for professional termite treatment in Knoxville, TN, at the first sign of trouble—or better yet, before there’s even a hint of one. Local pest control experts understand the unique challenges of protecting homes in East Tennessee and can provide both treatment and prevention strategies tailored to your property. By the time termite damage is evident it may be too late. With early intervention and consistent maintenance, you can protect your home from costly repairs and ensure peace of mind year-round.
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Otis Termite & Pest Control is a full-service pest control company with a focus on outstanding service. We have been serving the East Tennessee area for over 56 years and our reputation is built on prompt and effective service. We’re good at what we do and we’re fast. We do the job right the first time – and that’s an actual guarantee!
Call 865.690.1662 or visit www.otispestcontrol.net.
112 Hayfield Road 
