Which common household pest is known for causing structural damage?

Termites are well-known for causing significant structural damage to homes and buildings. They feed on cellulose, which is found in wood, paper, and other plant materials. As a result, their presence can lead to the deterioration of wooden structures, including beams, floors, and even the foundation, creating serious safety hazards and costly repairs.

While other pests may cause issues, they do not typically lead to the same level of structural damage. For instance, rats can damage property by chewing on electrical wires or insulation, but they do not target wood as a food source. Bedbugs primarily feed on human blood and cause discomfort through bites, rather than affecting the structural integrity of a home. Ants can invade spaces and sometimes cause minor damage, especially related to their nests or in search of food, but they do not have the destructive feeding habits that termites exhibit. Therefore, termites are distinct in their capacity to seriously compromise the structural integrity of a property.