Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
It's important that your termite inspection company offers services that satisfy both your short- and long-term needs. Many companies offer annual inspections paired with preventive solutions for continuous coverage, and this may be a better option than a single treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Trained professionals inspecting for termites will look for visible signs of infestation around the exterior of your home. They'll focus on structures that are touching the soil, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might entice 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 specialists typically offer both outdoor and indoor inspections. Indoors, they focus on areas that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as possible termite entry points. They may inspect 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 infestation is identified in your house, the inspection company will suggest a tailored treatment plan to get rid of the termites. Alternatives to chemicals are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates common chemical treatments including liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation requires vacating your home, tenting it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite situation, the pest control company might advise a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections assess for termite-friendly areas and assess current activity. Inspectors look for leaks, wood-to-soil contact, and other conditions that might draw termites to your home. The inspector may advise landscaping improvements or structural changes to enhance drainage and minimize potential entry points. Fixing these issues will decrease your chance of a future infestation.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions may need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to remain effective. Many exterminators offer continuing service plans that include annual or quarterly inspections for this reason. With this ongoing monitoring, the technician will verify new or increased termite activity. They'll also switch out baits and reapply liquid treatments when required. These plans lower the chance of major damage and often include a warranty.Termite Warranties
Termite inspection providers often offer a reservice warranty with their services. The warranty pays for any extra work required to deal with the termites if they return within a certain time frame after service. Some pest control companies even include repair warranties. These pay for costs to repair new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several important considerations for selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Obtain quotes from at least three companies. Keep in mind that companies may not be able to provide a quote without an on-site inspection.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business usually shows its dependability and skill. Providers with more years of experience usually resolve termite problems faster.
- Guarantees: Find a company that includes warranties or guarantees for reservice or repair. Request those 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: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, look at online reviews, and talk to people you trust to get a sense of customer satisfaction with providers you're considering. Good customer feedback suggests a track record of good customer service.
- Georgia Department of Agriculture
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost?
The cost for a termite inspection in Augusta is typically between $35 and $199. The exact rate depends on the company performing the inspection and your specific location. Many pest management companies offer free termite inspections. This gives them a chance to analyze your specific situation, recommend solutions, and provide a personalized quote. Following an inspection, you can decide whether to invest in a single treatment or a continuing service plan. Some companies bundle termite inspections with a range of home inspection services focused on homebuyers and sellers. If so, you can expect to pay an inspection fee.Sources
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Frequently Asked Questions About Termite Control in Augusta
What are some signs of a termite infestation?
Common signs of a termite infestation include flying swarms, mud tubes, frass (termite droppings), hollow-sounding wood, discarded wings, and visible wood damage.
How often should I have my home inspected for termites?
Ideally, your home should be inspected for termites every year. Having your home checked every year is especially important if your home is surrounded by trees, or you've had past issues with termite activity.
What is the best way to prevent termites?
The best way to prevent termites is to avoid wood-to-soil contact, repair moisture problems right away, and keep food sources away from your property. Use rocks or rubber mulch around the base of your home instead of wood mulch, and cut back tree branches and shrubs away from your house. Fix plumbing leaks as soon as possible, and keep your gutters clean to ensure proper drainage.
What attracts termites?
Unfinished wood and wet environments attract termites. Other paper-based materials, such as cardboard, can also be a termite food source.
What is the difference between termites and ants?
Termites chew through and consume wood, as opposed to most ants, except the carpenter ant. Termites have straight antennae and uniform waists, while ants have segmented antennae and small waists. Also, termites stay hidden more than ants, which you often see actively looking for food.
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