Termites are silent destroyers that can cause significant damage to your home, without you even realizing it. They are tiny insects that feed on wood and cellulose materials, which make up the structure of your home. Unfortunately, these insects are not something you can ignore, as their destruction can lead to costly repairs.
This is why regular termite inspections are crucial to keeping your home safe and secure. Experienced exterminators go above and beyond to check for any signs of termites, as well as conditions that may lead to future infestations. Let’s explore the what things exterminators check during termite inspections to ensure your home is protected.
Signs of a Termite Infestation
As homeowners, it is important to be aware of the signs of termite infestation. One telltale sign is the presence of mud tubes on walls or the foundation of your home. These tubes are constructed by termites in order to provide a safe pathway from their ![]()
underground colonies to sources of food, such as the wooden structures of your home. Additionally, discarded wings near windows or doors can indicate an active termite infestation. As termites swarm to find new sources of food and build new colonies, they shed their wings. Other signs to look out for include termite droppings, hollow-sounding wood, and buckling or bubbling paint. By identifying these signs early on, you can prevent further damage and protect your home from costly repairs.
Types of Termites
There are three main types of termites that exterminators look for during termite inspections:
- Subterranean
- Drywood
- Dampwood
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Subterranean termites are by far the most common in Pennsylvania, and are known for their ability to create extensive tunnel systems underground that lead directly into homes. Drywood termites, on the other hand, don’t require contact with soil and can infest any dry wood in a home, often causing major structural damage. Dampwood termites, as their name suggests, thrive in wet, decaying wood and are commonly found in areas with high humidity. It’s important to identify which type of termite has invaded a home in order to come up with an effective treatment plan.
Exterior Inspection
Exterminators are vital in detecting the presence and extent of termite infestations in homes. One of the key things they check during a termite inspection is the exterior of the house. They carefully inspect the foundation for any cracks or gaps that could serve as termite entry points. They also examine trees and stumps near the house, as these can be attractive targets for termites.
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Another important element of an exterior termite inspection is looking for termite shelter tubes, commonly known as mud tubes. These tubes are made from mud, dirt, and saliva and are often seen around the foundation or other wooden structures. Finally, exterminators will check wooden fences and decks for termite damage, as these elements can provide pathways for termites to enter the home. With their professional and informative inspections, exterminators help ensure that homes stay termite-free.
Interior Inspection
During a termite inspection, exterminators thoroughly examine the interior of a property to detect any signs of a termite infestation. The inspection includes inspecting the basement or crawlspace, where termites often enter a property. Wooden furniture is also examined for any termite damage, as termites may hide and eat through furniture.
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Wooden beams, support posts, or floorboards are also checked for signs of termite activity. Areas of high moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, are also inspected, as termites are attracted to damp environments. By thoroughly examining the interior of a property, exterminators can detect and treat termite infestations before they cause significant damage.
Termite Treatment Options
Termite treatment is a critical part of protecting your home from significant structural damage. Pest control professionals perform thorough inspections of a property to identify any signs of termite activity. During these inspections, exterminators check six essential things to determine the severity of the infestation and the most appropriate treatment options.
Chemical treatments are the most popular method and can be applied to the soil or directly to the wood. Bait stations use an insecticide that is slow-acting and allows the termites to bring the poison back to their colony.
Fumigation involves covering the entire property with a tent and releasing a gas that kills termites. Heat treatments use high temperatures to eliminate termites without the use of chemicals. Each treatment option has its own advantages and disadvantages, and pest control professionals can help homeowners choose the most suitable treatment for their particular situation.
Termite Prevention Tips
Termite prevention is paramount for homeowners. In order to prevent these pesky pests from invading your home, it’s important to take a proactive approach. One of the key steps in termite prevention is to eliminate any moisture sources. Termites thrive in damp environments, so be sure to fix any leaks or standing water around your home.
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Removing any wood debris surrounding your home will make it less attractive to these wood-loving insects. Regularly inspecting your wooden structures and fixing any damage will also help keep termites at bay. Sealing any cracks or gaps in your foundation or walls will prevent their entry. For added peace of mind, hire a professional for regular termite inspections and treatments.
The Importance of Termite Inspections and Prevention
Termite inspections are an essential part of ensuring the longevity and safety of your home. From checking for signs of infestation to assessing the surrounding environment, exterminators are equipped to identify and address potential termite damage. With the potential for thousands of dollars in repair costs, it’s crucial to take action to prevent these pests from wreaking havoc on your property.
Don’t wait until it’s too late, contact Procor Pest Control today to schedule your termite inspection and protect your home from these destructive pests. Trust the professionals to keep your home safe and secure for years to come.
underground colonies to sources of food, such as the wooden structures of your home. Additionally, discarded wings near windows or doors can indicate an active termite infestation. As termites swarm to find new sources of food and build new colonies, they shed their wings. Other signs to look out for include termite droppings, hollow-sounding wood, and buckling or bubbling paint. By identifying these signs early on, you can prevent further damage and protect your home from costly repairs.
Subterranean termites are by far the most common in Pennsylvania, and are known for their ability to create extensive tunnel systems underground that lead directly into homes. Drywood termites, on the other hand, don’t require contact with soil and can infest any dry wood in a home, often causing major structural damage. Dampwood termites, as their name suggests, thrive in wet, decaying wood and are commonly found in areas with high humidity. It’s important to identify which type of termite has invaded a home in order to come up with an effective treatment plan.
