What is Checked During a Termite Inspection in San Gabriel, CA? Mud Tubes, Damage & More

Termites are found in 49 of the 50 states, Alaska being the exception. Every year these destructive pests cause an estimated $50 billion in damage to buildings and dwellings. Termites are a particularly frustrating pest to have as they can cause extensive damage before you ever realize they have infested your home or business. Termites devour wood from the inside out, making their presence a challenge to detect, except for when you know what to look for. When you suspect termites, or have heard of an infestation in your neighborhood, the first thing to do is call a professional for a termite inspection. Today, we at Animal Pest Management Services would like to share a few of the common element’s professionals look for during a termite inspection.

Wings of Termite Swarmers

The most common termites are subterranean termites, making them the subject for termite inspections. From existing nests, termites will branch out to start new colonies. Once a colony is established and successful, winged-sexually mature adults will be produced after a few years. The swarm will fly off during the spring to create a new nest. Some people will see these winged termites although once they select a new home, the wings will be shed, and professionals can spot the discarded wings piled up, typically along the window sills. However, keep in mind some ant species start new colonies in a similar fashion.

Termite Mud Tubes

Professionals look for the mud tubing, but if you spot this beforehand, call in the professionals immediately. During the inspection, the professionals look for the constructed of the presence of mud tubes. In your attic or around other access points to your home, or along your foundation, near the pipes, in your crawlspace. These mud tubes are mostly constructed with soil, wood cellulose and other debris. To maintain the humidity levels that they need to survive, termites will build these protective tubes to reach the wood.

Mud in Construction Joints

To make themselves more comfortable, termites will seal small gaps with dirt. Should you see crusted dirt in the small holes or cracks in your sheetrock or concrete, or mud crammed into construction joints, even if you do not see any mud tubing, it could be an indication of termites.

Termites in Wood Fencing

Termites can also be prevalent in the yard and may not have made it inside yet. Wood fencing can harbor termites, wood mulch, which can invite termites in if it is too close to your home. Additionally, termites can infest firewood, fallen dead trees or stumps, and other wooden structures, such as shed decks, arbors, and playsets. Seeing any evidence of termites should warrant a professional inspection to avoid them from making their way into your home.

Termite Wood Damage

Most people do not see surface damage when the termites are infesting the wood. At most, people can identify the mud construction and dabs of mud when the seal the holes and cracks. The inspector will often tap the wood and listen for sounds of hollowed wood, which suggests termites. The sound can be a subtle distinction. Mud will often present in termite-damaged wood, along with long, deep parallel grooves from excavation work.

Termite Pest Inspections, Control, Removal & More in San Bernardino, Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside & San Diego Counties, California

These are just the common signs of termites most professionals look for during the inspection. There are other indicators and once the termite inspection confirms their presence, they will recommend optimal solutions. If you suspect termites, call Animal Pest Management Services and let our experts perform a termite inspections and proceed from there.

Call Now Button