Wood-decaying fungi attack wet wood, or wood in extremely humid, unventilated areas. They can cause serious damage to wooden structures. To inhibit rot, remove the source of moisture and improve ventilation, the same as for mould and mildew. Wet rot is characterized by dark, spongy wood, and members infested with dry-rot become brittle and cracked. Subterranean termites are found in Southern Ontario and British Columbia, where they feed on wood and can damage houses.
Termite colonies nest underground, foraging for wood to satisfy their appetite for cellulose.
Termites can travel above ground, and often into houses, via shelter tubes constructed of sawdust and saliva. Termites are similar to ants, but with straight bodies and antenna. Carpenter ants and powder-post beetles are also common in Southern Ontario. They don't ingest wood as termites do, however colonies nesting in wood can cause considerable damage. Carpenter bees are similar in appearance to bumblebees, and nest in exterior spaces such as behind fascia, soffits or other trim.