21/09/2021
PEST CONTROL ADVICE WHEN BUYING A NEW PROPERTY
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Few things are more exciting than purchasing a home, and to ensure the process goes smoothly, certain steps must be taken. Aside from any cosmetic updates you may want to make to your new residence, it’s important to also account for any problems that may not be visible to the naked eye. One such problem is a termite infestation.
Subterranean Termites, commonly referred to as “silent destroyers” for their ability to voraciously chew through wood, flooring and even wallpaper undetected, cause a lot of property damage each year, which is typically not covered by homeowner’s insurance. Before signing on the dotted line, prospective buyers should always request a termite inspection, by a licensed pest control professional to avoid getting stuck with costly repairs after the deal is done.
While a standard home inspection assesses the physical structure of a home from the roof to foundation, a termite new home inspection focuses on detecting the tell-tale signs of termite damage, as well as conditions conducive to infestations, such as cracks, crevices and moisture. Once completed, the pest control professional will issue a new home pest control report and recommend a course of action. When touring a new home, experts recommend keeping an eye out for the following signs that could mean a termite infestation is hiding in plain sight:
Mud tubes (used by termites to reach a food source) on the exterior of the home
1. Soft wood in the home that sounds hollow when tapped
2. Darkening or blistering of wood structures
3. Damage patterns with dirty galleries running parallel to the
grain of the wood
4. Discarded wings near doors or on windowsills indicating
swarmers have entered the home
While the above are signs of an active termite infestation, it’s important that prospective homebuyers are also aware of situations that could be attracting termites to the home.
Firewood
Many homeowners keep firewood stacked against their home for easy access. However, this can draw termites toward the home and provide a point of entry.
• Tip: Keep firewood and woodpiles at least 20 feet away from
the home and store wood on raised platforms at least 5 inches
from the ground
Gutters
Termites are attracted to moisture, and clogged gutters can cause water to pool and make insulation vulnerable to termites.
• Tip: Divert rainwater away from the foundation with down-
spout extenders and install splash blocks to prevent water
from pooling and attracting termites
Stumps
While it may seem easier to leave a tree stump in your yard, rotting wood can serve as termite fuel and eventually result in termites entering the home
• Tip: Have a professional service remove any excess wood from
your property
Branches
Tree limbs and leaves that meet the roof or the home’s exterior can provide a pathway for termites to enter the home
• Tip: Trim back any branches or shrubbery to ensure nothing is
touching the home
