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What Do Termite Inspectors Look For

Updated: May 24, 2023

Termites can cause serious damage to property, and it's important to have regular inspections to check for signs of termites. What do termite inspectors look for?


A termite inspector is a professional who looks for evidence of termite activity. They look for signs of current or past infestation, as well as risk factors that could lead to an infestation in the future. This article will explain what a termite inspector looks for during a home inspection and how it can help keep your home safe from termite damage.


Identifying Signs Of Termite Activity


When it comes to termite infestations, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That's why termite inspectors are essential in keeping your home safe from these wood-eating pests.


The first step in inspecting for termites is to identify any potential signs of activity. This can include noticing mud tubes near the foundation or on the window and door frames, seeing winged swarmers inside or around the house, finding wood damage caused by their chewing, or discovering small piles of sawdust near baseboards or other wooden elements.


Inspectors may also check for soft wood that could indicate a subterranean infestation.


Examining Areas At Risk For Infestation


Termite inspectors look for any sign of infestation or activity on a property. They will inspect areas of the home that are typically at risk, such as:


1. Areas around windows and doors

2. Basements and crawlspaces

3. Decks and patios

4. Porches and foundations


Inspectors will also pay close attention to wood-destroying organisms, which can cause significant damage to a property if left unchecked. They use specialized tools to determine the extent of the infestation, as well as the best course of action for eradicating it.


By thoroughly examining these high-risk areas, inspectors can help protect homeowners from costly repair bills in the future. With this information in hand, they can move onto inspecting other wood structures on the property.


Inspecting Wood Structures


Termite inspectors look for signs of current and/or past infestation of wood-destroying organisms. These signs include evidence of mud tubes, swarms, or discarded wings from winged termites, as well as other damage caused by wood-boring beetles. They may also take samples of the soil around the foundation to see if there are any live termites present. You don't have to delay real estate termite inspection if you find any termites.


Inspectors pay particular attention to areas where moisture is present such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics. Moisture is a key factor in the growth and maintenance of colonies of these destructive insects. The inspector will also check for any water damage which could be a sign that an infestation is already underway.


The inspector will then move on to examine all accessible wood structures including walls, floors, furniture, and window frames. They will look for signs of rot or warping caused by excessive moisture or pest infestations. Any visible signs will need to be documented and further investigated to determine the extent of the damage so that appropriate repairs can be made.


Following this examination, it's time to examine foundation vents for additional signs of infestation.


Examining Foundation Vents


It is commonly believed that termite inspectors primarily look for foundation vents when examining a home. However, a more thorough inspection of the venting system reveals that there are other important aspects to consider.


It is not just checking to see if the vented area is clear of debris and blockage—termite inspectors also look for cracks or holes in the vents which could indicate that termites have already found their way in. Additionally, they need to examine the sealant around the perimeter of each vent, ensuring it remains in good condition and has not been compromised by moisture or age-related wear.


Next, termite inspectors check for moisture issues near any foundation vents. This means looking at potential signs of water damage such as rotting wood, mold growth, or flaking paint—all of which can be indicative of underlying structural problems that could be inviting termites into your home. They also take into account any changes in landscaping around a home, as this can sometimes affect drainage and lead to moisture accumulation near the foundation vents.


Finally, part of what makes a comprehensive inspection is making sure all areas are thoroughly examined—especially around exterior walls and windows where a closer eye can pick up on subtle changes like tiny holes or darkened patches. Even though these may not jump out immediately as red flags for a possible infestation, they should still be noted and addressed before any further action can be taken.


With an accurate assessment finished, it’s time to move on to checking for moisture issues elsewhere in the home.


Checking For Moisture Issues


Termite inspectors look for signs of moisture issues, which can indicate the presence of termites. They check walls, ceilings, and floors for any visible water leaks or staining.


Inspectors also inspect plumbing fixtures and pipes for any signs of leaks or damage. In addition to checking for water damage, they will inspect around doors and windows to ensure that there are no openings in the building that could allow termites access.


Termite inspectors also look out for other conditions that may be conducive to termite activity. This includes inspecting attics and crawlspaces for excess moisture and inspecting the exterior of the home for standing water.


Other areas inspected include decks, patios, porches, garages, sheds, and other structures located on the property. By examining these areas closely, a trained termite inspector can assess potential problems that could lead to a future infestation.


Identifying these conditions early on is essential in order to apply treatment strategies before an infestation occurs. Taking these preventative steps is the best way to protect your home from a costly infestation down the line. With this knowledge in hand, it's time to explore how best to go about applying treatments.


Applying Treatment Strategies


Once upon a time, there was a termite infestation that had been left untreated. It had spread throughout the home and the damage to the structure was becoming increasingly worse. The homeowner decided it was time to call in a termite inspector to check for further signs of infestation.


The termite inspector began their inspection by looking for moisture issues which can be favorable conditions for termites. They checked around windows, doors and other areas where water could potentially be trapped. Additionally, they probed wood with an awl or screwdriver to see if it sounded hollow or if it had been eaten away from the inside.


Finally, after all signs of infestation were identified, the homeowner could then move on to applying treatment strategies such as baiting and chemical treatments. These strategies are designed to rid the property of existing termites and help prevent future infestations from occurring.


With these strategies in place, homeowner can rest easy knowing their property is protected from further damage caused by these pesky insects.


Frequently Asked Questions


How Much Do Termite Inspections Cost?


Termite inspections typically cost between $100 and $300, depending on the size of the property being inspected. Generally, the larger the inspection area, the higher the price tag.


The inspector will typically charge a fee for their time and expertise in order to examine your property for signs of termite damage. They'll look for signs of active infestations as well as any damage that may have been caused by termites in the past. In some cases, they may also recommend methods of pest control or treatments to prevent future infestations.


How Often Should I Have My Home Inspected For Termites?


It's recommended that you have your home inspected for termites once a year. The termite inspection will check for any signs of infestation, and determine if there are any potential risks or issues with the property.


An inspector will also look for visible damage caused by termites, and areas where they could potentially gain access to the home. They'll also check inside walls and other hard-to-reach places in order to identify any potential problems.


What Should I Do If I Find Termite Activity In My Home


If you find termite activity in your home, it's important to act quickly. Termites can cause extensive damage to wood structures, so getting rid of them is essential.


You should first contact a licensed termite inspector or pest control professional who can inspect the area and recommend a treatment plan. They will likely use special tools such as moisture meters and borescopes to detect any further infestations.


The inspector may also recommend that you take preventative measures, such as sealing entry points and eliminating sources of moisture around your home.


Can I Do Termite Inspections Myself?


If you suspect termite activity in your home, you may be tempted to inspect it yourself. However, this is not recommended as termite inspections require an experienced professional with specialized knowledge and equipment to accurately identify problem areas and determine the best course of action.


Not only can a qualified inspector detect current infestations, but they can also assess the potential for future problems and develop a plan for prevention.


Are There Any Special Preparations I Should Make Before A Termite Inspection?


Making preparations for a termite inspection is essential. The inspector will be looking for signs of an infestation, so it's important to make sure everything is in order.


You'll want to clear away any debris and cobwebs from windows and doors, as well as remove any furniture that may be blocking access to areas where termites might hide.


In other words, you should give your home a thorough spring cleaning before the inspector comes calling - it'll be worth its weight in gold!


Conclusion


It's important to take the necessary steps to protect your home from termites. A professional termite inspection can cost anywhere from $50-$300, depending on the size of your property and the type of inspection. It’s recommended that homeowners have their homes inspected for termites every 3-5 years. A1 Pest Masters are well known and do the cheapest termite inspection in overall Illinois. You can contact us at (312) 647-2630.


According to a recent study, up to 20% of all homes in the U.S. contain active infestations of termites. Taking preventive measures now can save you thousands in repair costs later! I recommend scheduling an inspection as soon as possible so you can rest easy knowing your home is safe and sound. Don't forget to read on our advice What if house failed termite inspection?



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