Termite Inspections: What Do Exterminators Look for?

So you think your house is infested by termites? Get rid of them right away because termites can damage all your wooden structures and the foundation of your home. Every year, the damage caused is worth billions of dollars, which is why eliminating termites at the earliest is really important.

So should you try DIY techniques or seek professional help? Dealing with termites is not easy. Hire reputed pest control companies and they will perform a more efficient job than you ever can.

Generally, the first step in dealing with a termite first conduct a termite inspection and observe signs that identify an infestation. After this, they determine suitable treatment methods to deal with the problem. Here are the most common signs, which are observed during a termite infestation.

The presence of swarmers

The most common type of termites in Phoenix is the subterranean termite. This sort of termite initiates an infestation with a nest, created by mature adult termites. As soon as a termite becomes mature, it spreads and builds its own nest in a season when the temperatures are mild and there is humidity in the air. Every nest releases a new generation of termites which are released in swarms. These spread rapidly and can be detected by their wings. When you call a pest control company, they will first look around for these and try to detrained the position of the nest.

Mud tubes

Wherever termites are, you will come across mud tubes. These are usually found near pipes, the foundation of your house, in crawlspaces or attics and close to other entry points in your house. Termites build mud tubes so as to seek shelter and maintain acceptable levels of temperatures and humidity. This is why these tubes are also called shelter tubes.

Mud tubes are made from celluloses, soil and other particulate matter with a thickness about the diameter of a pencil.

Mud in joints

Termites are known for filling up gaps and sealing them so that they become more comfortable. If your chosen exterminator in AZ cannot find mud tubes anywhere, they will look around for small holes, cracks and crevices. If any of them have been filled up with dirt, it indicates an infestation. Mud in construction joints also indicates the same thing.

Damaged wooden structure

This is a sign that is not visible until the infestation has become huge. A pest control company will examine all the wooden structures in your home and see if any of them have been eaten up and completely damaged. In a lot of instances, the damage may not be visible, but there may be mud tubes around your wooden structures. A pest control company taps wood and if the emitted sound is hollow, there may be an infestation.