Regular termite inspections are crucial for homeowners and businesses alike to prevent termite infestations. Investing in annual termite inspections from a professional pest control company is one of the easiest ways to protect your property from these destructive pests. But, how exactly do these inspections work? Here’s what you need to know.
What Do Termite Inspections Include?
During a termite inspection, a trained pest control professional will thoroughly examine your property for signs of termite activity and damage. Most appointments last anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on the size of your property. During the inspection, your technician will examine:
- Foundation: The inspector will start by examining the exterior foundation of your home or building. They will look for mud tubes, which are tunnels made by termites for protection.
- Wooden Structures: They will inspect wooden structures such as decks, porches, and fences that are in contact with the ground, as termites often enter homes through these areas.
- Landscaping: The inspector will check around landscaping timbers, mulch beds, and tree stumps, as these can attract termites.
- Walls and Ceilings: The inspector will check for visible signs of termite damage, such as hollowed-out wood, bubbling paint, or cracked plaster.
- Basement/Crawl Space: They will examine exposed wood in the basement or crawl space, as these areas are vulnerable to termite infestations due to their moisture content and wood availability.
After completing the inspection, the pest control professional will provide you with a detailed report of their findings. This report will include any evidence of termite activity, areas of concern, and recommendations for treatment or preventative measures. They will also advise you on any conducive conditions around your property that could attract termites, such as wood-to-ground contact, excessive moisture, or untreated wood.
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How Often to Get Termite Inspections
In general, it’s best to get a termite inspection at least once annually. You may need additional inspections if you come across signs of damage, or if you plan to sell your home anytime soon. Since termite problems can arise unexpectedly at any time of year, ignoring annual inspections could potentially lead to extensive damage over time.
How Much Do Termite Inspections Cost?
Termite prevention services vary in cost depending on the frequency of service and the type of treatment used. Regular inspections are generally affordable, ranging from $75 to $150 per inspection. That said, the price is a worthwhile investment compared to the potential expenses of repairing termite damage.
Signs You Have Termites
While annual termite inspections by professionals are crucial, it’s also important to stay vigilant and watch for signs of termites on your own. Early detection can help prevent termite infestations from causing extensive damage to your home. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Hollowed-Out Wood: Termites tunnel through wood, eating away at the cellulose and leaving it hollow. Tap on wood surfaces and listen for a hollow sound.
- Mud Tubes: These are tunnels made of mud that termites use to travel between their nest and a food source. They are typically found along the foundation of your home.
- Swarmers: Winged termites, or swarmers, are reproductive termites that emerge to mate and start new colonies. They are often mistaken for flying ants and are most commonly seen in the spring and summer.
- Discarded Wings: After a termite swarm, you may find discarded wings near windowsills, doors, or other light sources.
- Termite Droppings (Frass): Termite feces look like tiny wood pellets or sawdust and are often found in small piles or mounds near infested wood.
While these tips are helpful in between annual inspections, they are not a substitute for professional termite control services. Professional pest control companies have the expertise, tools, and training to thoroughly inspect your property for termites and implement effective treatment solutions. Annual inspections by professionals remain the best way to protect your home from the destructive effects of termites.
How to Get a Termite Inspection in Jacksonville FL
To schedule annual termite inspections, it’s best to partner with a professional termite control company like those at Bug Out. Our team of termite experts has years of experience providing thorough and efficient termite inspections, and if we come across any signs of damage, we’ll help you create a plan to eliminate them quickly. To schedule your termite inspection, call us today!
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