Termite Inspections & Treatments

According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), termites cost Americans more than $5 billion in damage annually. As a home or business owner, you should be aware of the risk termites poise to your property especially since termite damage is not covered by most home insurance policies. Early detection of termites can help minimize the cost of repairs needed to fix any damage caused. Here are several common signs of termites in your home or business that you might see (or hear):

• Floor damage: Termites can damage laminate flooring and skirting boards. Affected flooring may blister and sag in certain areas and checking underneath the flooring may help to uncover termite activity. Does your floor feel more spongy or perhaps springs more than usual?
  
  
• Wall damage: Look for unexplained cracks on internal walls. As termites consume cellulose found in timber within walls, the visible cracks could be a sign of termite activity inside.
  
  
• Ceiling damage: Wooden ceilings, beams, architraves and rafters in attics are just as much at risk of termite damage as wooden structures located nearer ground level. Look for cracks on ceilings and cornices.
  
  
• Foundation damage: The type of foundation your property is built on, has a big impact on how easy it may be for termites to gain entry in search of food. Although a lot of foundations are made of concrete, they are able to squeeze into any crack within these concrete blocks and from there gain access to floor joists, which are still made out of wood. Homes with crawl spaces appear to be at greater risk of damage as their foundations are still traditionally made out of wood.
  
  
• Sticking windows/doors: Windows and doors, which are infested with termites, may become difficult to open, as their tunneling and eating may make the frames irregular and misshapen.
  
  
• Garden damage: Decking and wooden fence posts in your garden are at great risk of termites. Long-term damage could lead to collapse. Termites may also damage trees, leading to branches falling off.
  
  
• Damage roof tiles: Access moisture in your home due to loose, broken or damp roof tiles can attract termites. Broken roof tiles are a great source of moisture, which will attract termites and allow them access further inside your home.
  
  
• Hollow-sounding wood: Termites feed on wood underneath the surface, making them invisible. Wooden doors, furniture, and wooden structural supports in your property are all at risk and should be checked if you are concerned.
  
  
• Frass: Also known as termite droppings. They don’t cause damage but are an obvious indicator of their presence and the potential damage that they can inflict in your property.
  
  
• Mud tubes on exterior walls: Act as protection for termites and are commonly found near the foundations of your home. Typically, subterranean termite species build mud tubes which also provide moisture. They are made up of soil and termite droppings. Avoid attracting termites by removing moisture rich environments and storing firewood, mulch and wood chips away from your home. Look for mud tubes on exterior on basement walls. They are easy to spot with the naked eye.

If you notice any signs of termite invasion in your home or business, the best plan of action is to find a reliable and experienced pest professional to handle the problem and we believe with our years of experience and our dedication to our customers, that Chem-Tech Pest Solutions is the answer you are looking for.