A Wood Destroying Insect Inspection searches for pests that could pose a threat to the integrity of a house. What exactly is a wood destroying insect and what are some of the warning signs you may have an infestation?
Wood Destroying Insects
Everyone is familiar with termites as the most infamous wood destroying insect, but there are a large variety of pests that can cause damage to the structure of your home, your furniture, and the trees around your property. Outside of termites, you should also be on the lookout for carpenter ants, powder post beetles, and carpenter bees. Much like termite activity in the United States, these insects have at least a slight to moderate presence in most of the country. The only states that are largely untouched are North Dakota and Maine. A full infestation from wood destroying insects can be very costly and could cost your entire home. Most of the homes in the US are made of wood – can you take that risk? Stop an infestation before it begins with an inspection and whole-property treatment from Innovative Pest Management.
Warning Signs
There may be surface level tell-tale signs of wood destroying insects in your home, but it’s important to get a thorough inspection as some signs may not be as noticeable. Outward signs of termite damage include buckling wood, swollen floors and ceilings, areas that appear to be suffering from slight water damage and visible mazes within walls or furniture. Termite infestations also can exude a scent similar to mildew or mold.
Signs of a carpenter ant infestation include piles of sawdust-like wood shavings under door jams, baseboards, and windows, rustling noises from inside the walls or hollowed doors, visible confirmation from the flying ants crawling around your ceilings, walls, and vents; and shed wings strewn about their favorite hiding places. Carpenter bees show much of the same behavior as carpenter ants, however they tend to prefer outside structures such as gazebos, trellis, fences and fence posts, and other outdoor structures.
