Termites!!!

If you think you don't have them, think again!

I always urge my sellers to get a termite inspection. Most buyers will get one anyway so it's best to nip it in the bud right off the bat.

What if they find termites?

Most lenders require a clear termite inspection. If mud tunnels, damage or any traces of termites (active or not) is found - you'd better plan to get a treatment before you can sell.

How much does that cost?

Treatments can run anywhere from $700 - $900

What do they do?

Liquid termiticides are usually applied completely around and underneath a structure covering all areas where termites might gain access. For new construction, this is accomplished by treating the graded soil before the slab is poured. For an existing building, the perimeter of the foundation is trenched and drilled then treated with termiticide. The goal of the treatment is to put a chemical barrier between the termites in the soil and the structure above. The chemical barrier can also affect those termites inside a building by preventing their return to the soil. In many cases these termites will die of dehydration.

Is there anyway to prevent termites?

You betcha! Plenty of ways:

*Repair structural and plumbing leaks.
*Pull all mulch and landscaping back at least 6 inches from the foundation.
*Remove piles of trash and debris from around the home.
*Keep firewood stacked away from the structure.
*Make sure downspouts are long enough to direct water away from the foundation.
*Keep gutters clean.
*Avoid direct wood to ground contact when building porches or decks.

Here at our house we use the Sentricon System. It is a bait system. The guy comes out once a month and checks our tasty wood pulp filled chambers that are strategically placed around the house for nibbles. If/when there has been evidence of feasting termites, the bug guy does the old switch-a-roo and replaces the tasty pulp with an equally tasty but lethal mixture.

For more info on termites, or if you are thinking about selling your home and just want to be on the safe side - give me a call! I can recommend some great pest companies!!