Signs of termite damage — Chicago, Illinois
Termites cause over $5 billion in property damage annually in the US — more than fires, floods, and storms combined. Because they eat wood from the inside out, infestations often go unnoticed until structural damage is severe. A pest control professional can inspect, identify the species, and recommend treatment before costly repairs are needed.
Why this is common in Chicago
Chicago's older housing stock generates steady demand for weatherization, storm window installation, and general maintenance. Seasonal transitions (winterization and spring prep) create predictable demand spikes for handyman services.
Who to call
For this problem in Chicago, call a: Handyman
Find a Handyman in ChicagoSymptoms to look for
- Hollow-sounding wood when tapped with a screwdriver handle
- Mud tubes (pencil-width tunnels) on foundation walls or in crawl spaces
- Discarded wings near windows, doors, or light fixtures (swarmer evidence)
- Bubbling or peeling paint that looks like water damage but walls are dry
- Sagging floors or doors/windows that suddenly stick or won't close
Emergency Service in Chicago
Emergency home services in Chicago are widely available 24/7, with typical response times of 30–60 minutes. After-hours rates range from $100–$200/hour. During polar vortex events, heating emergencies can see delays of 4–8 hours due to overwhelming demand. Illinois requires plumbing and electrical licenses for all work.