A termite inspection is a process that is designed to spot termites or other wood-destroying organisms, which can be hidden in small cracks and crevices. A professional inspector performing the termite inspection in Wichita Falls, TX has the training and equipment to find evidence of these pests and the damage to your home.
Termite Inspection
A termite inspection is an important part of your home maintenance plan. The inspector will thoroughly check the interior and exterior areas of your house. From walls to baseboards, the inspector will look for any signs of termite activity. They will also check for evidence of termite nests and mud tubes. Before the inspection:
- Make sure your home is clutter-free.
- Remove any items that are stored under your sink, against the walls, or in the attic.
- Remove any items that might obstruct the attic entrance.
Common Entry Points
When you have a pest control professional inspect your home, they will check for any possible entry points for termites. These entry points can be in your house’s subfloor or in the house’s structure. They can also enter the structure through cracks in the expansion joints of the structure, wooden fencing, or fallen tree branches. If you find any of these points, remove them. You should also ensure that you don’t leave firewood near the house because it is a common food source for termites.
There are many ways for termites to enter your home or office. These can include external weep holes or minute gaps in the mortar. It is best not to use insecticides in these areas, as this may disturb the termites. Moreover, don’t try to treat the areas by yourself – termites can still enter through these points.
Thermal Imaging Cameras
Thermal imaging cameras detect surface temperature variations that may indicate termite activity. The cameras are very sensitive, detecting only a few degrees Celsius changes. Typically, they are used in conjunction with a moisture meter. This combination enables them to spot termite activity in previously undetected areas.
A thermal imaging camera’s infrared rays can detect moisture and wood structures. The camera’s sensitivity can reveal whether termites have weakened a building’s foundation or damaged walls or wood structures.
Acoustic Equipment
Acoustic equipment is a tool that combines electronic and mechanical components to determine whether termite activity is present in a structure. The equipment is commonly composed of a highly sensitive electronic microphone and a mechanical means to amplify sound. These devices generate an audio signal with a high signal-to-noise ratio and transmit it to a control unit, which can perform automated comparisons and identify potential infestations. Some of these devices also contain a sound-attenuating substance to minimize the effects of ambient noise.
Acoustic equipment is used to detect termite activity by detecting the vibrations produced by termites. The vibrations produced by a termite infestation are usually short, lasting from 0.5 milliseconds to three milliseconds. These signals are then sent to a computer for processing. The device compares the detected signal with previously recorded signals from termite activity. A termite infestation is detected if the signal is sufficiently similar to the control signals.
Conducive Conditions
To prevent termite infestation, it is essential to eliminate the conditions that attract them. These conditions include moisture, food, and shelter. Eliminating them is best done during the construction process. Proper ventilation is also crucial. Proper ventilation helps prevent the buildup of wooden debris and water. It also eliminates ground moisture.
While it is difficult to pinpoint all areas of a house that may be infested with termites, some areas are conducive to their growth. Termites can be attracted to wood that has contact with soil. A common cause of wood-to-soil contact is plumbing penetrations, drains, and grade stakes. Interior moisture issues and cracks also create conducive conditions for termite growth.
Cost
The cost of a termite inspection depends on several factors, including the home you purchase and the lender’s requirements. Termite inspections for homes are usually free, while the cost of an inspection for commercial buildings can range from $650 to $2,500. Some companies offer free consultations, so you can get a feel for how much it will cost for your home. You can also ask your lender for a termite bond agreement to spell out a termite treatment plan. A termite bond agreement may cost from $500 to two thousand dollars.
Professionals perform termite inspections, and you should always request a termite inspection for your home before you sign any contracts. An inspector will evaluate the structure of your house and crawl on the subfloor to determine if there are signs of pests and moisture damage. Most termite inspection companies use infrared thermometers and moisture meters to detect termites. On average, a termite inspection should take about thirty to forty-five minutes, but larger properties may take longer.
Termite Liquid Treatment
Termite liquid treatment is an important part of the pre-construction termite inspection process. This treatment is performed to eliminate the termite population in a building. It can be used to treat the entire structure or a portion. A liquid treatment is most effective in treating all types of subterranean termites. It is also discrete and residual and does not require bait stations.
The cost of a termite inspection will vary, but the cost is much less than repairing or replacing the damages caused by termites. Termite damage can lead to major expenses, including replacing damaged supporting structures. The price of termite treatment will vary depending on the type of treatment and the company that does the work.
