What Are Termites?
And how do they affect your home?
Termite inspections are important because subterranean termites are a type of insect that live in and eat wood from the inside out. They can be dangerous for homeowners as they are a risk to all wooden structures within one’s home. The damage that termites can do over long periods of time can result in thousands of dollars worth of repairs.
How Do I Know if I Have a Termite Problem?
Termites often do not show signs of significant damage until it is too late. That’s why it is important to have a termite inspector take a look at your home each year. Someone who is trained will know not only which species of termites are in your area, but also what damages can be present and where to look for them. By hiring a termite inspector, they may be able to catch signs of damage that you may not be able to see yourself.
Mud Tubes. Termites create mud tubes, which are their way of getting around. While they are not typically very large, that doesn’t mean they aren’t capable of causing damage.
Frass. Otherwise known as termite feces, frass can be found by doorframes, windowsills, and other places where termites would enter or exist their interior wood habitats.
Evidence of Swarmers. When termites are ready to start a new colony, they will shed their wings before heading out, leaving piles of wings within your home.
Bubbling in Paint. Termites will create access points for moisture and air to get to them. Moisture that gets trapped between the paint and the wall can create bubbles.
Termite Inspections with
Shane’s Pest Solutions
What to Expect
- The first step is an in-depth inspection of both the interior and exterior of your home. Timing will vary depending on the size of your property, but will typically be 1-2 hours.
- The interior inspection will include checking all walls, windows, baseboards, door frames, the inside of all cabinets and closets, and crawl spaces; Places that have a lot of wood. Special attention may also be given to specific rooms, such as garages, attics, kitchens, utility rooms, and bathrooms.
- The exterior inspection will focus on examining the foundation of your home and exterior walls and eaves. Anything that can possibly lead to a termite infestation.
- The surrounding areas of the property will also be inspected to make sure that there are no signs of termite activity there either.
- Finally, the inspector will let you know what they have found and if it raises any concerns. A treatment plan, even a precautionary one, may be suggested.