Termites are insects that can cause extreme damage to any premises. A termite inspector is called to find out all past and present signs of termite damage. In addition to identifying activity, this inspector will also tell you how you can avoid any possible termite infestations in the near future.
What are the different signs of termite infestations?
- Swarming signs – Swarms near any windows or doors imply the home is infested with subterranean termites. Flying swarms can usually be found around lighted areas.
- More moisture – Walls and wooden borders on doors and windows need be checked with a moisture meter. A higher-than-normal level can be signs of termite presence.
- Damaged wooden beams – Any beam that is termite infected is bound to sound hollow. Beating it with a mallet might help you find out whether the beam is infected or not. Any beam that gives out signs of hollows at the softer innermost position can help termites eat it from the inside out.
- Access points – Wood fencing around the homes, firewood piled around the structure, wood mulch and other sources of termite food might be places where the infestation actually occurred.
What are mud tubes?
Mud tubes or shelter tubes are ways of determining whether or not there is a termite infestation on any property. Termites form these mud tubes for free movement when moving to newer feeding grounds.
Mud tubes are mostly of three kinds:-
- Exploratory Tubes – Made by termites surrounding their homes. These are long, fragile and multi-branched. Abandoned mud tubes are also signs of previous termite infestations.
- Working Tubes – These are the lines from the colonies to sources of food. The tunnels widen and strengthen as they continue.
- Drop Tubes – Freestanding tubes that look like stalactites in caves. They are also built by these termites to move from the food source and the colony.
The exploratory tubes and working tubes are ways of termites for travelling from one place to another. Drop tubes are the ones that handle the open space between the termites and the source.
What to expect from building inspectors at such an inspection?
- After you have called them for an inspection, check for their credentials. In case you sense them to be unsure, nervous or unprofessional go for another option.
- They will tell you in detail about the dangers of the neighborhood. They will also update you on the types of termites available in the area.
- They will inspect your entire house including basements, crawl spaces and attics. One must walk the entire length of the yard and check for signs of termites in compost or dead wood to be completely sure.
A proper termite inspection can help rid your property of a lot of future troubles, both structural and monetary. It is thus best to get this inspection done before purchase.