Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an educated decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive solutions for maximum security. This might be a better choice than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
A pest control expert will carefully inspect your home’s exterior for visible termite issues. Structures that touch the soil and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that could attract termites, such as the following:- Cracks in expansion joints
- Deadwood
- Firewood stacks
- Pooling water around the foundation
- Standing water on the roof
- Wood mulch close to the foundation
- Wooden deck supports
- Wooden fences
Interior Inspection
When evaluating for termites, professionals often pair the exterior inspection with a meticulous interior inspection. This inspection concentrates on wet spots, possible entry points, and anywhere with wood or cellulose materials. They might check the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
If an inspector identifies termites in your home, they'll usually suggest an effective treatment plan to remove the termites successfully. Alternatives to chemicals exist too, including physical barriers, heat, and biological pest control agents such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth to create a barrier around your house. Baits draw in termites using cellulose laced with a slow-acting insecticide. Another possible option is fumigation, but this requires you to temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation encloses and floods homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To resolve your current termite issue, the inspector might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Thorough termite inspections evaluate for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors check for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might attract termites to your house. Your inspector may suggest structural modifications, such as landscaping improvements, to increase drainage and minimize possible pest entry points. Fixing these issues will decrease the likelihood of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need consistent monitoring, replacement, or reapplication to remain effective. Many quality termite inspection companies provide ongoing plans with yearly or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will check for new or increased termite activity. They'll also change out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans cut down on the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection professionals often include a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty covers any extra work required to deal with the termites if they come back within a certain time frame after service. Some pest control providers even offer repair warranties. These cover costs to fix new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several key considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Get quotes from three or more specialists. Some may need to inspect your situation in person before giving you an estimate.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its dependability and skill. More time in the field usually leads to more experience dealing with termite problems.
- Guarantees: Look for inspectors who offer guarantees or warranties including reservice and repair. Get these contracts in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: A professional pesticide applicator in Colorado should hold either a commercial or limited commercial/public applicator licenses from the Colorado Department of Agriculture. Always ensure that your provider is properly insured. Anyone who applies restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Research each company through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, check online customer reviews, and ask friends and family for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the level of service you can expect.