Termite Infestation

Termite Infestation is one of the many concerns a home buyer considers before closing the deal. Termites cause damages that prove costly and if not treated, the thought of termites silently feasting on one’s biggest investment or having thousands of winged termites (swarmer) emerging from one’s home can be emotionally trying experience.

How can you tell if the house is infested?

Termites are obscure creatures and well hidden that infestations can go undetected for years. Termite feeding and damage can progress undetected in wood because the outer surface is usually left intact. Oftentimes, people mistook winged termites as ants. One can tell that it is a termite by looking at its straight antennae, uniform waist and wings of equal size while ants have elbowed antennae, constricted waists and fore-wings that are longer than the hind wings.

Here are some of the indicators or tell-tale signs that the house has termite infestations: (Source: http://home.howstuffworks.com)

• Wood Damage. As termite feeds on wood, sometimes it is not detected since the outer surface does not show any damage. An experienced inspector will tap the the wood beam and if hears a low or flat sound that indicates the wood is hallow in the inside.
• Wood in Your Landscape. Presence of wood within the vicinity of the house like wooden fence, wood mulch, firewood, deadwood, and other wooden structures. Wood is the primary food source of termites.
• Mud in Construction Joints. These are crusted dirt that sealed small gaps, holes or cracks in the sheet rock or concrete, or mud crammed into construction joints.
• Mud Tubes. It’s like covered highways made of soil, wood cellulose and other particulate matter that termites use to traverse open, exposed spaces like concrete footers.
• Evidence of Swarmers. During spring when the temperature is mild, air is humid and relatively still, sexually mature, winged termites called Alates fly off to create their own colony.

Confirmation of termite infestation requires the help and keen eye of an experienced termite inspector. There are several companies that cater Termite Inspection and Treatment. One must take time when selecting the right company or professional who will do the service.