The one pest that puts fear into most homeowners is termites. Termites are known to cause millions of dollars worth of damages across America. We are now entering the season for termites to breed and search out new areas to begin new colonies. This is why A Five Star Termite and Pest Control suggest that now is the time every homeowner should do the yearly inspection for termite activity. Most are unsure how to do their own inspections, where to look for termites or what signs they should even be looking for. No worries. A Five Star Termite and Pest Control will share the top strategies used by professionals when inspecting for termites within a home or property.
Interior Termite Inspection
Most termite inspectors start with a basic inspection which if termites are present is usually found in this beginning process. First look at floor boards, window and door frames, and any wood externally exposed that may be low or within contact of the ground. When inspecting the wood use a hammer or a screw driver and lightly tap on the wood to look for any weakness or soft spots within the wood. Soft or hollowed out wood is a sure sign of termite activity.
Exterior Termite Inspection
There are many species of termites, each with its own set of behaviors. However all of them will feed on wood. There are some that are subterranean that live underground and will travel to wooden areas. When doing exterior inspections, inspect any wood that may be on or near the soil or ground. Subterranean termites can travel through cracks in foundations. They will also make mud like tunnels to keep them cool and safe from predators. You may see one or even multiple tunnel systems on the ground or climbing up the walls to wooden structures. Look for damaged wood or weak wood the same way. Use either the hammer or screw driver. You may also want to examine dying or dead trees, wooden fences or structures on your property. Another sign of a termite invasion you may want to look out for is discarded wings on ledges of window sills etc. Female termites break or twist their own wings off after finding a suitable place to begin a new colony.
Inspection of Attic and Crawl Spaces
With a good flashlight in hand, your next place for inspection will be the attic or crawl spaces within your home. Many species of termites breed in the spring and the pregnant female will fly in search of a good nesting site. These female termites or alates often fly through the vents in attics where they easily discover your roof’s wood framing. This is a perfect warm place to begin a new colony. Look for any signs of termite activity such as saw dust and small holes. These are a sure sign of termite activity. In many cases you many actually see the termites already feeding on the exposed wood. Also look on the ceiling within your home. You may notice small spikes of muddy looking sawdust tubes hanging down. These are created by termites.
Termite Inspections, Control & Removal in Cibolo, Universal City, New Braunfels & San Antonio Texas
Depending on the species of termite that is in your area, they may be drawn to wet decomposing wood or dried out wood. Most commonly, they are on wood that is near or touching the ground. However all homes are at risk regardless of the species of termite that may be near or in your home. If you discover termites during your yearly search, or if you are not sure but may suspect termites, you can contact A Five Star Termite and Pest Control we can inspect your home for evidence of their intrusion and treat your home for termites.
