Termites in Alabama 101
We recently found tiny, pin-size holes with dust/dirt flecks on the drywall in our office at home. A visit from our friendly Cooks Pest Control technician confirmed termites, even though we'd had a clear termite inspection just 3 months earlier. It's termite season, and we should all be on our guard!
I'm by no means an expert on the topic, but here are a few things I've learned:
In many areas of the South, if you own or buy a house without termite protection it's a case of 'when' the house will have termites, not 'if'.
Even if the house has been treated, liquid termite protection breaks down over time and then it's a case of 'when' the house will have termites, not 'if'.
If you're vigilant, there are usually early signs of termites (but not always).
Look out for vertical(ish) mud tunnels coming up from the ground in crawlspaces, garages or outside.
Look out for swarming termites (I think most people would spot these inside their homes)
Look out for rippling, flaking, dimpling, or tiny pin-sized holes with flecks of dust/dirt in drywall and trim work.
Your termite bond does not guaratee that you'll never have termites. It's like an insurance policy that may pay for the treatment of termites if they are found in your house. Some, but not all bonds, may also pay for the repair of any damage done by termites. You should know whether you have a 'repair' bond or a 'replacment' bond.
A bond is usually issued by a company after they have treated a house for termites. A bond may have a quarterly, semi-annual or annual renewal fee.
If you elect to have a liquid treatment as protection on your house and you don't pay the renewal fee, your house may still have what remains of the liquid treatment protection (but not the bond).
If you elect to have bait traps installed and you don't pay the annual fee, the termite company will likely take the traps away and you will not be protected at all.
A transferrable termite bond adds value to a Home For Sale.Things to remember:
Termites like damp conditions. Keep your house and the area around your house dry.
Termites like wood - Don't pile firewood up close to your house.
Termites can also be in drywall.
Like I said, I'm no expert on termites. Always consult a trained professional if you have questions or concerns about termites or if you find evidence of termites in your home.
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