By DoMyOwn staff
Performing your own Termite Inspection might sound like a daunting task, but it is an important part of the termite control process and with our expert help we will show you how to get the job done like a pro.
“The first step in termite control is to perform a thorough inspection. It's not a difficult process, but there are a few things you need to know before you get started. If you need help identifying termites, click the link to our Termite VS. Ant video in the description below. You'll need a few tools to make your inspection easier. Coveralls will protect your clothing when you are inspecting crawlspaces or foundations. A bright flashlight will help aid you with inspecting dark spaces like basements and attics. A sharp-ended object, like a pocket knife or screwdriver, can help probe wood for damage and expose termite galleries in wood.
Now to begin your inspection, you should focus on certain areas that are more likely to have termite damage like basements and crawlspaces. Within these areas, pay special attention to all wooden construction elements, support posts, sub floors, joists, support piers, wooden decks, and porches. Especially window seals, window frames, wood piles, debris near your home's foundation, also tree stumps and wooden fence posts. Areas where concrete meets wood, like on steps, concrete slabs, and porches. And cracks in brick construction, their expansion joints, and also cracks or spaces in cement, where termites might gain access.
Now that you know where to inspect for termites, keep your eyes open for these common termite signs. Winged termites, individually or in swarms located near indoor or outdoor windows. Their presence can indicate a nearby nest. Mud tubes, which are tunnels made by subterranean termites to get from the soil to the wood. These may be present on wooden elements, concrete slabs, or walls in your basement or crawlspace. Other signs include piles of wings, damaged wood- especially small homes in the wood, and cracking paint. If you see any of these signs, take the sharp tool and probe these areas. This will expose any tunnels and their termites. Now you know how to complete a thorough termite inspection. The next step will be treating these areas with products the pros use.
So make sure to check out our other videos in the termite series for product recommendations and application instructions. And it's that easy with the expert help from Do My Own Pest Control.com”
