If you want to prevent the spread of termites in your home, you should hire a termite inspector. San Antonio Home Inspectors will look for damage to the foundation and wood structure in your home, as well as any debris outside. They will also check the yard and surrounding property to see if there are any signs of termite activity. In addition to hiring a professional termite inspector, homeowners should fix any leaking faucets or water heaters, and keep water away from the foundation. It’s also a good idea to grade the soil around the foundation to avoid water accumulation.
During a termite inspection, the inspector will check the exterior of your home, paying particular attention to any areas where there are wooden structures. Wooden structures such as fence posts that are attached to the siding are common termite access points. Pressure-treated wood is usually more resistant to termite attack than naturally-treated wood. Regardless of whether you’re buying a new home or an existing one, it’s important to have a professional inspection before you make a final decision.
Once the inspector has determined that your home has a high risk of termites, they’ll check every part of your home. They’ll pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms, as these are areas where termites can gain access to your home through plumbing connections. They’ll also inspect baseboards, walls, windows, closets, and garages. Despite what they don’t see, termites can cause a great deal of damage, from the wood to the foundation and yard.
You can detect signs of termite activity in your home by looking for subterranean termite mud tubes, visible damage to wood inside and outside, and discarded wings in your windowsills. Your inspector will also search for signs of mud tubes or other areas where termites can live. The termite inspector will also give you suggestions for treatment if you already have an active infestation, as well as preventive measures to avoid future invasions.
A termite inspector will go through every accessible area of your home, including attics, crawlspaces, and foundations. They will also look for other areas that may be conducive to termite activity, such as moisture issues and structural problems. These areas include wood mulch near the foundation, wooden deck supports, and wood-to-ground contact. Once they’ve inspected your home, your inspector will make recommendations for further treatment.
Termites are common throughout the U.S., but they are especially prevalent in the South. Termites do not die in the cold; they just slow down and enter a hibernation stage. A termite inspection includes not only a thorough look for termites but also carpenter bees and ants. This inspection will determine whether or not the pests have infested the structure of your home.
A termite inspection will typically take about 45 minutes and will include exterior and interior areas, as well as any random piles of wood. While some areas of your home will be obvious, such as mud tubes, others will need extra time. Crawl spaces are a common area where termites live and are often overlooked for years. If you suspect your home is infested, contact a professional termite inspector today.