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For those people living in an older wood framed
home, or who are considering purchasing one, it may be beneficial
to investigate having a termite inspection done. Termites live in
all parts of the United States, regardless of climate. They have
even been found in Alaska. A termite colony can number in the millions
so the potential for significant damage to a house is very real.
To find out if termites are a problem in your neighborhood, you
may want to speak to some of the home inspection services that operate
in your city. There are two particular types of these pests that
are known for being the most destructive.
Dry wood termites are so-named because they inhabit
the wood itself. Whether they live in the wooden frames of the
home, or even the wooden furniture inside the house, they can
eat through it very quickly. If you suspect that your home is
infested with this type of termite, be on the lookout for sand-like
fecal pellets. Other types of common household pests are subterranean
termites. The presence of mud tunnels is a tell-tale sign that
these termites might be nibbling away on your walls. As they eat
their way through the wooden walls of your home they create tunnels
throughout the interior, making the foundations of your home a
nutritious meal for a colony that could have thousands of little
critters.
Most professional termite inspectors can complete
their review of your house in less than an hour. They will examine
both the interior and exterior of the house for signs of any insects
that can damage wood. While certainly looking for termites, inspectors
also check for evidence of other pests such as carpenter ants
and certain types of beetles. Should it be found that termites
or other destructive insects are causing damage to the wooden
structure of the house; the inspector will likely recommended
a chemical termite treatment to eliminate the infestation.
However, a onetime treatment is not going to be
a permanent solution. Steps should be taken to prevent termites
from causing further damage. Reduce attracting termites to your
house by keeping firewood and garden mulch away from the exterior
walls. An inspection of your deck and fences should be done regularly
to check for damage. Finally, make sure that there are no cracks
or gaps between the eaves or attic vents.
Home inspectors do not look for signs of termites
or other wood-eating pests as part of a general inspection. However,
they may offer this service for an additional fee if you are having
a home inspection done anyway. Most professional termite inspectors
are state-certified and use consistent reporting methods across
the country. The internet can link you with a number of resources
and contact to help you assess your own termite situation and
possible solutions.
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