Do-it-Yourself (DIY) Termite Inspection

Although it is best to consult a professional termite exterminator, you can do a quick termite inspection of your home in four steps:

Step 1

Check ALL places in and around your house that are MOIST and DARK. Termites do not like direct sunrays and dry air because of their thin exoskeleton that allows quick exchange of body water with the environment. For this reason termites can’t live long outside their nests that they ALWAYS build in soil first, and return to them at least once every 24 hours. Tube-like structures are also build by termites to hide them from light and high temperatures. It’s easy to scare the termites away from a certain place by damaging either their nest or tunnels, however, they will only hide themselves to more secluded areas and will continue their activity from there. A second inspection will be more difficult to conduct.

Step 2

Check wooden parts of your house that are close to the ground (0-5 inches or go into soil). These are the ‘natural’ paths for termites into your house.

Step 3

Check solid timber constructions by tapping with a hammer. If you hear a hollow sound in what should be solid, get professional help.

Step 4

Check suspicious wood surfaces in the attic or basement by picking them with a knife. Damaged wood will give way while solid will resist.

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Do-it-Yourself (DIY) Termite Inspection

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