Termites can cause extensive and permanent damage to your home. If you suspect you have such a termite problem, you should have an expert pest control company conduct an inspection. Learn everything you need to know about termite inspections by reading our guide.
The Termite Inspection Process
The procedure is relatively simple. First, you schedule a termite inspection by phone or online with the company of your choice. Please schedule an appointment with a licensed technician who works for you, keeping in mind that you’ll need to be present to allow them access to your home, garage, and any other structures you want to be inspected.
Some companies only require preparation after arrival, while others request that you take several steps. A good rule of thumb is to guarantee that the technician can access any critical areas, particularly your attic, sink, garage, and if you have one, crawl space. Be sure to remove any items from your attic, any obstructions from expansion joints in your garage, and anything that obstructs access to the opening of your crawl space or the area beneath your sink.
What Termite Inspectors Look For
When searching for termites, inspectors look for several key pieces of evidence. These are indicators that you can detect yourself. Sadly, termites are frequently undetectable until they have already caused extensive damage to your woodwork. Therefore, termite inspections are essential.
Wood Damage
Tapping your wood and hearing a hollow sound is a sure sign of termite activity. Termites cause severe damage to the structural joints of your wood, leaving them with a rippled or crushed appearance. You can use a screwdriver to examine the wood for tunnels. Subterranean termites always construct tunnels parallel to the wood’s grain, displaying a distinct architectural pattern.
Buckling Paint
The paint on your walls may bubble or flake if you have subterranean termites. Damage caused by termites to drywall allows moisture and air to enter between the color and the surface. As a result, the water beneath the painted surface may begin to buckle. Remember that your paint could bubble for various reasons, so it does not necessarily indicate termite activity.
Must Read: How To Remove Raccoons From Attic
Live Termites
Live termites are notoriously challenging to detect. If you encounter one in your home, make sure you can distinguish it from an ant. There are three distinct subterranean termites: workers, soldiers, and reproductives. Each of these groups appears creamy white. The primary distinction is that the reproductives have wings, making them resemble flying ants in appearance.
Wrap Up
Numerous prospective homebuyers had their loan applications approved despite their homes’ existing state. They may be turned down for financing or offered a very low loan if they can’t meet those conditions. When you obtain your free termite inspection, you can rest easy knowing that you won’t have to pay back more on your loan for home repairs or renovations than the home is worth.
Hero Pest Control offers the most comprehensive termite inspections. Our technicians will thoroughly inspect your home for signs of termites and other wood-destroying insects. We’ll also inspect your home’s exterior to ensure no gaps or cracks that could allow pests in.