Serving Memphis, Cordova, Germantown & Collierville TN
Termites can ruin the joys of homeownership and cost a lot of money in repairs. That’s not something a new homeowner wants to face when taking on a huge investment whether they are a first-time homebuyer or an investor purchasing multiple properties. Preventing termites in the first place, as well as properly identifying termite activity, is crucial in protecting these wood-destroying insects from destroying your home. Termite inspections are recommended when purchasing a home, even for new construction. On our newest blog today, AAA Termite & Pest Control shares this must-have termite inspection checklist.
Foundation/Crawlspace Inspection
Termite activity can often be spotted along a home’s foundation and/or crawlspace as they build mud tubes to travel from their colony to the inside of your home. Termites can even build their mud tubes along concrete slabs and sneak through tiny cracks and crevices. Therefore, homes built on concrete slabs are just as susceptible to termite damage as homes with foundations and crawlspaces. Areas near or adjacent to the home’s foundation should also be inspected for signs of moisture damage or pooling water that could cause wood rot and attract termites.
Basement Inspection
Basements are known to be dark and humid, which could attract termites. Basements should be inspected by examining the walls and floors, as well as wooden beams (if they are visible). Termites consume wooden structures, meaning that they could eat wooden studs or beams behind walls and underneath flooring. Hallow sounds as you walk on the floors or tap the walls could indicate termite damage. Termites prefer areas with high moisture or standing water, so remember to also look for any water leaks or moisture issues that may develop in the basement.
Visible Wooden Structures
All visible wooden structures like window and door trim, wood floors, beams, wood furniture, porches, and wood on the outside of your home should be inspected thoroughly for termite activity or previous termite damage. Spotting discarded wings or termite frass (excrements), which is a substance that looks like sawdust, could indicate termite activity.
Attic Inspection
Most people assume that termites stay low to the ground, but as a termite infestation worsens and spreads throughout a home, termite activity may be spotted in the attic. Attics typically are unfinished, which means that the wooden structures, supports, and beams are exposed, making it an attractive area for termites. Additionally, attics with roof leaks are more likely to be havens for termites.
Inspect Doors and Windows
Doors and windows have wood trim and casings that could be hiding places for termites to lurk. If you notice a door or window that doesn’t seem to close or seal properly or that leaves cracks even when it’s closed, that could signal that termites are hiding and destroying the area around the door or window.
Garage Inspection
Garages can be unsuspecting areas that termites hide. But the fact is, many people store boxes and unused items in their garage, which means more food sources for termites. Termites consume cellulose, which is used to make cardboard. Cardboard boxes could attract termites and give them easy access to the inside of your home as you bring boxes indoors to unpack items.
Termite Inspections in Cordova and Memphis, Tennessee
A termite inspection can help give you the peace of mind that you deserve when purchasing a home. To learn more about termite inspections or to hire a professional pest control technician for termite treatment and prevention, contact AAA Termite & Pest Control by calling (901) 737-7378.