Which insect is commonly known to cause damage to the structural integrity of homes?

Termites are often recognized as significant threats to the structural integrity of homes due to their diet primarily consisting of cellulose found in wood. These wood-destroying pests can silently consume wooden structures, furniture, and various cellulose-based materials from within, making it challenging to detect their presence until substantial damage has already occurred. Their ability to create elaborate tunnels within wood and their colony structure allows them to inflict severe harm over time without immediate visible signs.

In contrast, ants, while they can be pests and may cause localized damage, do not typically compromise the structural integrity of a building to the same extent as termites. Bees are primarily beneficial insects that pollinate and do not cause damage to structures; they may be found nesting in cavities but do not consume wood. Flies, on the other hand, are not wood-destroying organisms and are not known to damage structures. Thus, termites stand out as the most relevant choice when considering insects that can notably affect a home's structure.