Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite companies offer will help you make an informed decision. Many providers offer yearly inspections along with preventive solutions for maximum coverage. This could be a preferable alternative to 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 meet the ground and exterior wood both get extra attention, as do moisture-prone spots that could lure 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
Pest control companies typically combine an outside check with a thorough inside check. Inside, inspectors look at potential termite entry points, damp areas, and areas with wood or cellulose. They typically look at the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
If termites are detected in your home, your pest control professional will propose a customized treatment plan to get rid of the termites safely and successfully. Nonchemical alternatives are available, including physical barriers, heat, and biological control methods like beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees chemical termite treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides permeate the earth to create a barrier around your house. Baits use insecticide-laced cellulose to draw in termites. Another possible option is fumigation, but this means you must temporarily vacate your home. Fumigation seals off and fills homes with a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite problem, the inspection company might propose a multipronged strategy.Future Vulnerabilities
Complete termite inspections evaluate potential vulnerabilities as well as current termite activity. The inspector will search for conditions that could attract termites to your home, such as plumbing leaks and wood-to-soil contact. Your inspector may recommend structural changes, such as landscaping improvements, to improve drainage and reduce possible pest entry points. Taking care of these issues will decrease the chance of another infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes require regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many pest control providers offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this monitoring, technicians check for new or worsening termite activity. This also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid treatments as needed. This recurring service lowers the chance of major damage and commonly comes with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspectors provide a reservice warranty with their services, which covers the costs of additional appointments or more work needed to deal with the termites if they come back within a given time period after service. Some pest control professionals take it a step further and include repair warranties. These warranties cover repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
Homeowners should consider several key factors when hiring a termite inspector.- Cost: Contact at least three companies for quotes. Remember that some may insist on assessing the problem before providing an estimate.
- Experience: The length of time a company has been in business often reflects its dependability and skill. Companies with more years of experience can typically resolve termite problems more efficiently.
- Guarantees: Choose a company with warranties or guarantees that cover reservice or repair. Get the contracts in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Georgia’s Department of Agriculture sets the rules and regulations that govern termite inspections and pest control. Make sure any company you hire is licensed by the state and meets the minimum insurance requirements. 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, read online reviews, and talk to family and friends for their recommendations. Feedback from other customers speaks volumes about the quality of service you can expect.
- Georgia Department of Agriculture
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- Discarded wings
- Flying swarms
- Frass (termite droppings)
- Hollow-sounding wood
- Mud tubes
- Visible wood damage
How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost?
The average cost of a termite inspection in Athens ranges from $40 to $223. However, the cost will vary by provider and location. Many pest control companies provide free termite inspections. This gives them a chance to analyze your particular situation, propose solutions, and provide an individualized quote. Following an inspection, you can decide whether to invest in a one-time treatment or a regular service plan. Certain businesses provide termite inspections along with other home inspection services geared toward homebuyers and sellers. If so, you can expect to pay a fee for the inspection.Sources
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Frequently Asked Questions About Termite Control in Athens
What are some signs of a termite infestation?
Indicators of a termite infestation include the following:
How often should my home be inspected for termites?
You should get your home checked annually for termites. Annual check-ups are very important if your property is surrounded by trees, or you've had termites before.
What is the best way to prevent termites?
You can best prevent termites by fixing any moisture issues right away, keeping termite food sources far from your home, and keeping wood off the ground. Use rubber mulch or rocks around your foundation instead of wood mulch, and trim bushes and tree limbs away from your house. Repair any plumbing leaks as soon as possible, and keep your gutters clean for proper drainage.
What attracts termites?
Unfinished lumber and wet environments draw in termites. Other cellulose-based materials, such as cardboard, can also be a termite food source.
What is the difference between ants and termites?
Termites gnaw through and consume wood, as opposed to most ants, aside from the carpenter ant. Termites have straight antennae and uniform waists. Ants have segmented antennae and narrow waists. Also, termites stay hidden more than ants, which you often see busily looking for food.
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