Worried about calling termite control services? Don't be. Termite inspections are not very imposing, nor do they take very long.

What you should be worried about is what happens when you don't call. Namely, there's nothing you can do to stop the termites from eating away at your home unless you have pest control services inspect your property.

And so, we want to eliminate any concerns you have about termite inspections once and for all. In this guide, you'll learn everything there is to know about what to expect from this process. Read on to discover more.

Can I Check For Termites Myself?

Yes, you're welcome to look for the signs of termite damage on your own and, in fact, you should. (These signs are included in the next section.)

Still, this doesn't negate the need to get a professional inspection. You will still need a licensed termite removal service to check for themselves before they can start treating your termite problem.

When Should I Get a Termite Inspection?

Here are the signs of termite damage you should watch out for. Remember: termite infestations spread very quickly. So, if you notice these signs, don't hesitate to call termite control services to inspect your home.

However, if termites are very prevalent in your area, it's best to get an inspection once every year, regardless.

Damaged/Fragile Wood

Wood damage can be from a lot of causes. But it's still the first warning sign of a termite infestation.

Specifically, wood damaged by termites feels very light and hollow. It's also very dry and it breaks/crumbles easily. Besides these signs, subterranean termites can cause blistering/swelling in your floors that you may mistake for water damage.

Termite Tunnels in Wood

Tunnels in your wood are a dead giveaway that you have termites or some other wood-destroying organisms in your home. If you see these, get an inspection.

Mud Tubes

You might also notice similar tunnels in the mud around your home. These are usually the nesting grounds of subterranean termites.

Frass (Droppings)

Termite droppings, called frass, are often easier to spot than the other signs. Termites don't like the frass junking up their nests so they dispose of it in more open areas. Frass are tiny pellets that, in large amounts, look a little like sawdust.

Clicking Noises (Headbanging)

Some termites make a noticeable clicking noise from time to time. This is called headbanging because they make the sound by hitting their heads against hard surfaces.

Termites

If you know what they look like, keep an eye out for live termite specimens as well. You should definitely order a termite inspection if you see any.

Seeing live termites, or any of these signs, doesn't necessarily mean your house is infested. But it's worth it to find out for sure. Plus, the termite removal service might be able to prevent an infestation if there isn't one already.

Where in the Home Do Termite Control Services Look for Termites?

Pest control services will inspect all areas both inside and outside of your home. They will definitely check every room in your house, including attics, crawlspaces, and basements.

They will also look at any wood structures on your property. This typically includes fences, decking, and gazebos.

Trees, stumps, fallen branches, and firewood will be inspected as well. Besides all the wood, the ground around your home will be inspected for signs of subterranean termites.

Lastly, cracks and crevices in the construction of your home will be examined very closely. These are common points of entry for termites.

How Long Do Termite Inspections Take?

Inspections do not take long, provided you follow the pest control company's instructions on how to prepare your home beforehand. In all, it should take less than an hour, specifically about 30-45 minutes. However, this varies based on the size of the property and how easy it is to access certain areas.

How Do I Prepare For a Termite Inspection?

Each termite control company will have its own instructions that they ask you to follow in preparation for your inspection. When you call to set up your appointment, ask about this.

Regardless of specific instructions though, you should always unblock access to all areas of your property. That is, unlock all doors, keep floors and pathways clear, and get all unnecessary clutter out of the way.

What Should I Expect From the Pest Control Company Performing the Inspection?

So, how do you know you can trust the termite control service you choose? First, check them out online. They should have a high user rating compared to other services in the area.

Also, they should be very professional and clear in their communication with you. A good termite removal service will tell you what to expect even before you have to ask.

This goes for the inspection process itself as well as the way they calculate the pricing of their services. In other words, you should have a clear idea right away of how much the service will cost.

Lastly, you should expect what they say and do to closely reflect the information you've read in this guide.

Do You Need a Termite Inspection or General Pest Control Services?

As you can see, you have nothing to worry about from letting termite control services inspect your home. Termite inspections are quick and easy.

On the other hand, waiting too long to call pest control services allows the infestation to grow, causing widespread damage to your home. If you need a termite inspection or general pest control, don't wait to call. Dial the number at the top of this page or contact us here to get the help you need immediately.