THE CULPRITS
Wood is a timeless element of construction, offering warmth and character to homes. However, lurking within its fibers are tiny threats that can quietly wreak havoc on your property—wood-destroying insects. These pests, including termites, carpenter ants, and wood-boring beetles, can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Understanding their behavior and implementing thorough inspection practices is crucial for safeguarding your home.
- Termites: Often called “silent destroyers,” termites feast on wood, causing extensive structural damage. Subterranean termites, the most common type, live in underground colonies and access wood through mud tubes. Drywood termites, on the other hand, infest dry wood and don’t require contact with the soil.
- Carpenter Ants: While they don’t eat wood like termites, carpenter ants excavate galleries within it to build their nests. Over time, this activity weakens the wood, potentially leading to structural issues.
- Wood-Boring Beetles: These insects lay eggs on or within wood, and their larvae bore through it as they develop. While they vary in size and appearance, their presence can cause cosmetic damage and compromise the integrity of wooden structures.
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES
- Moisture Control: Address any sources of moisture, such as leaky pipes or clogged gutters, to create an inhospitable environment for wood-destroying insects.
- Seal Cracks and Openings: Seal gaps around windows, doors, and utility penetrations to prevent pests from entering your home.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep wood surfaces well-maintained by painting or staining them regularly. Replace any damaged or waterlogged wood promptly.
- Monitor Wooden Structures: Implement a regular inspection schedule to catch infestations early. Early detection can minimize damage and treatment costs.
ORDERING A WOOD-DESTROYING INSECT INSPECTION
ReloOlogy Inspection Management Services recommends ordering a wood destroying insect inspection in addition to any full home assessment/inspection order. Some home inspectors are also pest experts and may notice the signs while conducting a home assessment, however, many home inspectors are not pest experts. ReloOlogy maintains a network of pest experts in addition to home inspectors. By ordering wood-destroying insect inspections, you are taking a proactive step towards safeguarding your property, your investment, and the well-being of any inhabitants.
Order your home assessments and wood-destroying insect inspections by emailing ReloOlogy: orders@reloology.com
INSPECTION TECHNIQUES
Enlisting the expertise of a pest control professional can provide peace of mind. Pest professionals have the knowledge, tools, and experience to identify infestations accurately and recommend effective treatment options. Pest inspectors evaluate the exterior, paying close attention to the foundation, siding, and roof. This includes looking for mud tubes (for termites), sawdust-like frass, wood decay, and soft spots. On the interior, the inspector checks areas prone to moisture, such as basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms/kitchens.
Inspector Top Tip: Wood-destroying insects often enter homes from the surrounding landscape. Keep shrubs, trees, and mulch at least a few feet away from your home’s foundation to reduce the risk of infestation!
Download this guide Wood Destroying Insects, ReloOlogy, May 2024
