What Should You Look For During A Termite Inspection?
Termites cause a considerable amount of damage to properties throughout the US, although the way they are scattered across the country varies from state to state. Consequently, some places are more likely to face a termite infestation than others. That being said, all home and business owners should ensure their property is regularly inspected to detect the presence of these insects as early as possible. Why? Because if a termite colony is allowed to grow, then it won't just be harder to get rid of but is likely to cause more damage than it otherwise would. Call on a professional to help with a termite infestation inspection if you want a thorough service to be carried out. In the meantime, what are the basic checks you should be doing for your own termite inspection regime? Read on to find out.
Hollowing Timbers
Some species of termites like to live in the timbers of buildings, such as rafters and floorboards. If they are allowed to keep on eating through the fibers of such wooden structures, then they can eventually hollow them out meaning your entire property could become structurally unsound. To detect the presence of such termites, tap on the exposed wood around your property. If it sounds hollow or rattles when you knock on it, then it is highly likely that countermeasures are going to be needed to get rid of a growing colony.
Listen For Buzzing
Sometimes, it may not be possible to visually detect the presence of termites during an inspection. Therefore, you should also use your ears. For an effective aural termite inspection, wait until the evening when it is dark. Enter each room in turn, silently. If you detect buzzing or clicking sounds that stop as soon as you turn your light on or make a sound, then it could be caused by termites living in the cavity between your walls or overheard in the ceiling. Again, consult a professional if this is the case to help you get rid of them.
Bubbling Paintwork
When inspecting the exterior woodwork of your property, such as weatherboarding or wooden window frames, it is a good idea to look for paint that appears to be aging prematurely. What this often comes down to is termites inside that are disrupting the internal integrity of the wood. As a result, you can see flaking or bubbling paint that comes away when you wipe over it.
For more information about termite inspections, contact a local company.
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