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Signs that termites might be invading your house

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Signs%20that%20termitesTermites live to eat. Their hunger causes $5 billion worth of damage each year in the U.S., damage most homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover. In fact, a colony can devour a foot of 2-by-4 wood in only six months. And since termites are masters at going undetected, they can destroy entire support beams before you discover their presence. That’s why it’s so important to know what to look for.
The warning signs of termites
Most termite species like to stay underground and within walls, where it’s dark and damp. Here are some signs to look for:
* Mud tubes – The easiest sign to detect. These pencil-width paths lead from a nest directly into your home and make it easy for termites to avoid sunlight. Check the surrounding land, any crawl spaces and your basement.
* Swarms – Reproductive termites grow wings and fly during spring and fall. Check for this type of termite and the wings they shed.
* Piles – Drywood termites leave sawdust-like piles around windowsills and cracks in woodwork or beams. You might also see what looks like collections of dirt at the base of walls and in corners.
* Weakened wood – Long, thin cracks and sagging can be signs that wood has been hollowed out by termites. (Holes in wood are not commonly caused by termites, and may be a sign of beetles or carpenter ants.)
What a termite control professional can do for you
Termite professionals have years of experience and expertise when it comes to using the right treatment method for your unique situation. Different techniques are required based on the location of termite activity, the type of foundation you have and even the number of porches and patios. And just because the obvious signs of an infestation aren’t there, such as mud tunnels or splitting wood, it doesn’t mean that termites aren’t. There are a number of professional termite control products on the market today, including DuPont Altriset. It works by paralyzing the mouths of termites within hours of exposure, stopping further damage immediately.
Signs%20that%20termitesYour risk and how to reduce it
Risk level varies, largely depending on where you live. However, there are common measures that will make your home less appetizing to termites.
* Termites like moisture – Eliminate water in gutters and puddles or any other areas where water might gather on or near your home. Repair any plumbing or drainage problems. Laying down plastic barriers in crawl spaces, basements and attics will help keep them dry.
* Don’t provide termites with extra food – Remove lumber or freestanding wood from the base of your home. Don’t plant trees too close and clip away any vegetation, such as shrubs, that might be touching the foundation or walls.
* Damp spots and cracks are an open invitation – Check outdoor faucets and gutters for leaks and ventilate humid crawl spaces. Repair cracks and holes in the foundation with caulk, closing off termite entry.
* Don’t take any chances – Have your home inspected each year by a professional. It doesn’t take long and can mean early detection – saving you time and money.
A smart way to protect your investment
By mimicking a substance found in certain tree bark, DuPont Altriset paralyzes the mouths of termites to stop them from feeding within hours of exposure. It also clings to their bodies undetected and enhances social behavior so that it is spread quickly throughout the colony. Your home is termite-free within three months and protected for years to come. . Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to termites.
IMAGE CAPTIONS:
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Caption 1: Early detection is the best way to protect your home.
Caption 2: A termite colony can devour a foot of 2-by-4 wood in only six months, according to Michigan State University research.

Courtesy of BPT

 

Here in Georgia, the law does not require a termite letter for closing on a home sale, however, we always recommend the buyer arrange for one.  The cost of termite damage is a worry that you don’t want!

For more information about any Lake Oconee Homes for Sale , call Suzie (706-347-1115) or Jim (706-453-6253) Through our Multiple Listing Service, we have the key to any home for sale.

RE/MAX Lake Oconee Agents Realty 706-454-7777

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Secrets of a solid home inspection

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Nearly two-thirds of surveyed homeowners report that a home inspection during the selling or buying of a house saved them money.

(ARA) – Selling, buying or just putting a house on the market may raise many questions. Can I get a good price? Are there any problems I should fix prior to listing my house? If I buy this house, will I encounter problems that may make me regret my decision?

The sale price of a house depends on many factors, including the market, location, size of the property, age of the house, condition of the structure, what appliances might be included in the sale and even how nicely the property and building were landscaped and decorated – just to name a few.

Having a qualified professional inspect your house prior to putting it on the market – or for prospective buyers, before closing on a sale – can help guide your decision. But many homeowners and prospective buyers are unsure what’s included in a standard home inspection, according to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). A qualified home inspector will review these aspects of a property:

  • Roof, attic and visible insulation
  • Foundation, basement and structural components
  • Walls, ceilings and floors
  • Heating and central air conditioning systems
  • Windows and doors
  • Water fixtures and faucets
  • Decks

Nearly two out of three homeowners recently surveyed by ASHI reported they saved a lot of money as a result of having a home inspection during the selling/buying of a house. Sellers use inspections to help determine potential problems that can be repaired or replaced prior to listing – potentially getting them a higher sale price. And buyers use the inspections to determine if they want to invest in the property, or help negotiate for a better price that would include the repair and replacement of potential problems.

Not all home inspectors are certified and licensed. ASHI’s “Find an Inspector” tool allows homeowners to locate an inspector in their area. Always check with your local inspector for a complete list of services provided.

“It’s important for homeowners to do their homework before hiring an inspector,” says Kurt Salomon, ASHI president. “Look for a home inspector certified through the ASHI Certified Inspector Program, which is the only home inspection association program approved by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.”

The following elements are not included in a standard home inspection:

  • Septic system
  • Electrical wiring and plumbing that is not readily accessible (for example, behind drywall or plaster)
  • Water conditioning or softening system
  • Swimming pool
  • Backyard fences
  • Lawn irrigation system
  • Household appliances
  • Compliance with local codes
  • Appraisal to determine market value

Before hiring a home inspector, inquire about what is covered in the inspection and ask to see a sample report. Although some inspectors provide ancillary services, it may be necessary to consult a specialist for concerns that extend beyond a standard inspection. Often your inspector will help you make this determination.

Hiring a certified home inspector and having questions answered before putting your house up for sale – or before finalizing a purchase price – can not only help save money, but also allow you to go through the process with more peace of mind.

Courtesy of ARA

For more information about Homes for Sale in the Lake Oconee area, call Suzie (706-347-1115) or Jim (706-453-6253) Through our Multiple Listing Service, we have the key to any home for sale.

RE/MAX Lake Oconee Agents Realty  706-454-7777