Everything You Need To Know About Termite inspection cost

If you own a home in Florida, you’re no stranger to the challenges of living in a humid climate, from hurricanes to a range of pests. While severe weather conditions can wreak havoc on your property, some threats, like termites, quietly cause extensive damage over time.

So how do you protect your home from these destructive critters?

In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about termites, including the most common species in Florida, how to spot signs of an infestation, and why getting a termite inspection is essential to safeguarding your home.

Common Types of Termites in Florida

Termites are among the most damaging pests for homeowners in Florida. They’re small, usually measuring only about three millimeters, and they often go unnoticed until the damage is severe. Florida's warm, humid climate is a perfect environment for several types of termites, with the most common ones being:

1. Subterranean Termites These are the most widespread and destructive type of termite in Florida. Subterranean termites live in colonies with distinct roles, including workers, soldiers, and swarmers (the reproductive termites). The swarmers have wings and eyes, which allow them to fly away and start new colonies. Subterranean termites build nests in damp soil and wood, traveling between them via mud tubes, and they can damage everything from wood to cotton and even paper.

2. Dampwood Termites Dampwood termites thrive in areas with high moisture levels. You’ll typically find them in the southern regions of Florida. They favor areas where wood is in contact with the soil, often seeking out spots with water damage, such as from leaks or standing water.

3. Drywood Termites Unlike subterranean and dampwood termites, drywood termites don’t nest in soil. Instead, they form colonies inside wooden structures, usually undetected for long periods. Their stealthy nature makes them particularly problematic, as they can silently destroy wood from the inside out.

How to Spot Signs of a Termite Infestation

Detecting termites can be a challenge, as they tend to hide deep within the wood they damage. However, there are a few key signs that can indicate a termite problem:

1. Termite Wings During the spring, swarmer termites leave their colonies to mate and start new nests. You might find discarded wings around windowsills or near doorways, a sure sign of a termite presence.

2. Damaged Wood The most obvious sign of a termite infestation is wood that has been damaged from the inside. It can be difficult to spot this damage because termites typically hollow out wood from the interior. However, tapping wooden surfaces can reveal hollow sounds, indicating termite activity. To confirm an infestation, you’ll need a professional inspection.

3. Mud Tubes Termites often build mud tubes on the exterior of your home, which act as a bridge between their nest and the wood they are feeding on. These tubes are essential for maintaining moisture and protecting termites from predators.

4. Termite Droppings Also known as frass, termite droppings are small pellets that you may find near termite nests. However, the presence of droppings doesn’t always indicate an active infestation. Termite droppings can remain even after termites have moved on, so it’s important to get an expert opinion to determine whether the problem is ongoing.

5. Bubbling Paint Bubbling or peeling paint can also be a sign of termites. As termites consume wood, they create moisture, which can cause paint to bubble or peel on the surface of the wood.

Why a Termite Inspection is Important

Termites can do a lot of damage before they’re even noticed. Because termites often infest areas that are difficult to access, such as the interior of walls and floors, it’s nearly impossible for an average homeowner to identify them on their own.

Scheduling a professional termite inspection is the best way to identify any hidden infestations before they cause significant damage. Catching the problem early can save you thousands of dollars in repairs, as extensive damage from termites can lead to costly structural repairs.

Additionally, if you’re planning to sell your home, having a termite inspection can be essential. A history of termite problems can be a red flag for potential buyers, but having an inspection report showing that your home is termite-free can put their minds at ease.

What to Expect During a Termite Inspection

A termite inspection is a thorough, non-invasive process performed by a licensed professional. The inspector will examine both the interior and exterior of your home, paying particular attention to accessible wooden areas. The inspection typically covers:

• Woodwork like floors, banisters, and moldings
• Attic rafters and crawl spaces
• Basement joists and wall studs
• Exterior wood siding

The inspector will also look for signs of termite activity such as mud tubes, damaged wood, and moisture issues that could make your home more susceptible to an infestation.

After the inspection, the professional will provide a report outlining their findings. The report will include information about the severity of any infestation, the extent of the damage, and any recommended actions for treatment or prevention.

Termite Inspection and Prevention

The cost of a termite inspection is relatively low compared to the cost of repairing severe termite damage. An inspection can help you detect termites early and take corrective measures before the damage becomes too severe.

If you find that termites are present, a variety of treatment options are available, from fumigation to spot treatments. Regular inspections can also help you stay on top of any potential issues, making it easier to take action before termites cause significant harm to your home.

Schedule a Termite Inspection

Termites are a serious threat to homes in Florida, and ignoring the problem can lead to expensive repairs. Protect your property by scheduling a termite inspection with a trusted expert.

At Guardian Angel Inspections, we offer comprehensive termite inspections to ensure your home remains safe from these destructive pests. Our experienced inspectors use the latest technology to locate termites, even in the most hidden areas of your home.

Don’t wait for termites to cause damage schedule your inspection today! Call 561-512-7854 or fill out our online contact form to get started.