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Termite Control

How Often Does My Home Need a Termite Inspection?

Termites, often unseen pests, can cause significant structural damage to homes, which is costly to repair. The frequency of termite inspections can greatly influence the early detection and management of these pests. Regular inspections are crucial, especially considering the subtle and typically hidden nature of termite infestations. Understanding when and how often to conduct these inspections can not only save your home but also a considerable amount of money in the long run.

Key Factors Influencing Inspection Frequency

1. Geographic Location

Homes located in warmer climates are more susceptible to termite activity due to the favorable conditions for termite survival and colony growth. In regions like the southern United States, where warmth and humidity prevail, annual inspections are strongly recommended.

2. Previous Termite Infestations

Properties with a history of termite problems are at increased risk of future infestations. If your home has been treated for termites in the past, maintaining a regular inspection schedule is essential to monitor any resurgence and manage risks effectively.

3. Construction Materials and Age of Home

Older homes and structures primarily made of wood are particularly vulnerable to termite attacks. These properties, especially those over thirty years old or constructed primarily from wood, should be inspected at least once every two to three years.

4. Environmental Conditions

Areas with high moisture levels, whether from natural humidity or man-made issues such as poor drainage, attract termites. Properties in these areas might require more frequent inspections to prevent termite damage. Homes with poor ventilation and drainage should consider adjustments to mitigate these risks.

The Termite Inspection Process

During a comprehensive termite inspection, a pest control professional will examine the property for signs of termite activity and vulnerabilities. They inspect both the interior and exterior of the home, including accessible crawl spaces, basements, and attics. Professionals look for common signs of termite presence such as mud tubes on foundation walls, damaged or hollow-sounding wood, and live termites or their discarded wings near windowsills and doors. The inspector also evaluates conditions conducive to termite infestations, such as wood-soil contact, excessive moisture, and cracks in foundation walls through which termites might enter.

What Happens If Termites Are Found?

If evidence of termite activity is found, the inspector will recommend a treatment plan tailored to the specific needs of your home. This might include soil treatments, bait stations, or direct wood treatments. Following up with regular inspections after treatment is crucial to ensure that the infestation is completely eradicated and to monitor for any new activity.

Benefits of Regular Termite Inspections

Committing to regular inspections helps protect your home by:

  • Identifying Potential Termite Activity Before It Becomes Widespread: Early detection is key in minimizing the extent of damage and the associated repair costs.
  • Allowing for the Implementation of Preventative Measures to Reduce Future Risk: Professional inspectors can provide valuable advice on how to make your home less attractive to termites.
  • Preserving the Structural Integrity and Value of Your Property: Termites can significantly decrease the value of a home by undermining its structural stability. Regular inspections can prevent this.

Making Inspections a Routine Part of Home Maintenance

Just as you would check a home’s heating system or roof, termite inspections should be a regular part of home maintenance. Homeowners are encouraged to consult with a pest control professional to determine an inspection schedule that best fits the needs of their property and local conditions. Termite inspections are a critical aspect of home maintenance, providing peace of mind and saving homeowners significant repair costs in the long run.

By understanding the factors that affect the frequency of termite inspections and committing to a regular schedule, you can protect your investment and ensure that your home remains strong and secure for years to come. Reach out to Bug Baron Exterminators today to set up a termite inspection for your home.

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Termite Control

Are Termites a Problem in Southern California?

The Prevalence of Termites in Southern California

Termites are indeed a significant problem in Southern California. The region’s climate and environmental conditions make it an ideal habitat for these pests. It is an unfortunate reality that homeowners need to face in order to protect their property. Understanding the extent of the termite problem and the reasons behind their prevalence is crucial for homeowners in this area. A little bit of education about these pests can help homeowners understand where to focus their termite prevention efforts.

Why Termites Thrive in Southern California

  • Ideal Climate: The warm and moderately humid climate of Southern California provides perfect breeding grounds for termites. This climate facilitates their growth and spread throughout the year.
  • Variety of Termite Species: Southern California is home to several termite species, including drywood, subterranean, and dampwood termites. Each species has unique habits and infestation patterns, which contributes to the widespread termite activity in the region.
  • Wooden Structures: Many homes and buildings in Southern California are constructed using wood, which is a primary food source for termites. This makes residential and commercial properties more susceptible to termite attacks.

Identifying Termite Activity in Your Home

Knowing the signs of termite activity can help in early detection and control. Key indicators include:

  • Mud Tubes: Often built by subterranean termites, these tubes are a highway for termites to travel from their colony to their food source.
  • Wood Damage: Hollow-sounding or visibly damaged wood is a common sign of termite infestation.
  • Swarmers and Discarded Wings: The presence of winged termites or their discarded wings around windows and doors can indicate an active colony.
  • Frass: Drywood termites leave behind wood-colored droppings known as frass, which can often be found near infested areas.

The Importance of Professional Termite Control

Due to the complexities of termite behavior and the potential damage they can cause, professional termite control is vital. Professionals offer comprehensive solutions, including:

  • Thorough Inspections: Experts can identify the species of termites and the extent of the infestation.
  • Customized Treatment Plans: Based on the specific needs of your property, professionals can devise effective treatment strategies.
  • Preventive Measures: Alongside treating current infestations, professionals can also implement measures to prevent future infestations.

How to Choose the Right Pest Control Service

Selecting a competent pest control service is crucial. Look for a provider with experience in handling various termite species prevalent in Southern California. Choose a termite treatment and prevention company that has a proven track record in Southern California. Local experience and expertise can make a significant difference in the success of treatment and the overall experience of the homeowners.

Vigilance and Professional Intervention

Termites pose a significant threat to homes and buildings in Southern California. Homeowners should remain vigilant for signs of infestation and seek professional assistance promptly. Early detection and professional intervention are key to protecting your property from termite damage.

Concerned about termites? Find out more about professional termite control solutions from the experts at Bug Baron.

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Termite Control

Does Southern California Have a Lot of Termites?

The Termite Scenario in Southern California

In Southern California, termite infestations are a common concern for homeowners. The region’s warm and inviting climate is not just appealing to its residents and tourists but also to termites. These pests find the local conditions ideal for thriving, leading to frequent infestations in homes and buildings.

Recognizing the Signs of a Termite Infestation

Identifying a termite infestation early is crucial to mitigating damage. Homeowners should look out for:

  • Hollow-sounding wood: This indicates that termites may have eaten away the inside of wooden structures.
  • Discarded wings: These are often found near windows or light sources and indicate a recent termite swarm.
  • Mud tubes on exterior walls: A sign of subterranean termites, these tubes protect the colony from predators and conserve moisture.
  • Visible damage: This includes blistered wood surfaces and damaged woodwork.

The Risks of Untreated Termite Infestations

Ignoring a termite infestation can lead to severe consequences, including:

  • Structural Damage: Termites can compromise the structural integrity of a building, leading to costly repairs.
  • Financial Burden: The cost of repairing termite damage can be substantial and is often not covered by standard homeowners’ insurance.
  • Decreased Property Value: Known termite issues can significantly reduce the value of a property.

Why Termites are a Problem in Southern California

Several factors contribute to the high incidence of termites in Southern California:

  • Easy Access to Food: The architectural trends in Southern California, which often favor wooden structures, provide an abundant food source for termites. This makes local homes more prone to termite attacks.
  • The Right Weather Conditions: The warm, often humid climate of Southern California is perfect for termites, particularly during spring and summer. This weather not only supports their survival but also aids in their reproduction and spread.
  • Diverse Termite Species: The region is home to multiple termite species, including drywood and subterranean termites. Each species has distinct behaviors and infestation patterns, complicating control measures.

Reasons You Should Bring in Professional Help

Dealing with termites requires expertise that goes beyond DIY methods. Professional termite control services offer:

  • Expert Inspections: Professionals can accurately identify the termite species and the extent of the infestation.
  • Customized Treatment Plans: Based on the inspection, experts devise a treatment plan tailored to the specific needs of your home.
  • Advanced Treatment Methods: Professionals use advanced and more effective termite control methods that are not available to the general public.
  • Preventative Strategies: Besides treating the current infestation, professionals also focus on preventing future infestations.

Choosing the Right Termite Control Service

Selecting the right termite control service is critical. It’s advisable to choose a service with:

  • Experience in dealing with local termite species.
  • Positive customer reviews and testimonials.
  • A comprehensive approach to termite control, including prevention.

A Proactive Approach to Termite Control

Southern California’s climate and construction trends make it a hotspot for termite activity. Homeowners should be proactive in identifying and addressing termite issues. By engaging in professional termite control services, you can protect your home from these destructive pests and ensure the long-term safety and value of your property.

Worried about termites in your home? Discover effective solutions and professional assistance from the pros at Bug Baron.

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Termite Control

Termites and the Yearly Damage in Southern California

In the sunny and warm climate of Southern California, residents enjoy beautiful weather year-round. However, this pleasant climate also attracts a less welcome guest – termites. These tiny but destructive pests can cause significant damage to homes and businesses, costing millions of dollars in repairs annually. In this article, we will explore the annual havoc wreaked by termites in Southern California and introduce you to a local hero in the battle against these pests – Bug Baron Exterminator, serving the Inland Empire and San Bernardino County.

Termites: The Silent Threat

Termites are often referred to as the “silent destroyers,” and for a good reason. These tiny insects silently infiltrate homes and businesses, feeding on wood and cellulose materials, such as structural beams, support posts, and even furniture. While they are small in size, their insatiable appetite for wood can result in significant damage over time.

Southern California’s warm and dry climate provides the ideal conditions for termites to thrive. In this region, subterranean termites are particularly common, as they can easily tunnel through the dry soil and reach the wooden structures of buildings. Annually, termites cause extensive damage to homes and businesses in Southern California, making it crucial for property owners to remain vigilant.

The Yearly Damage

The damage caused by termites in Southern California is nothing short of staggering. Each year, homeowners and business owners collectively spend millions of dollars on repairs and treatments to combat these pests. The financial burden is compounded by the fact that termite damage is often not covered by standard insurance policies, leaving property owners to bear the full cost of repairs.

Termites can compromise the structural integrity of buildings, leading to costly repairs. In addition to the financial aspect, termite infestations can also result in health hazards as they can bring mold and moisture problems. Moreover, the mere presence of termites can be emotionally distressing for property owners who have invested their time and resources in maintaining their homes or businesses.

Introducing Bug Baron Exterminator

Amidst Southern California’s annual struggle against termites, there is a beacon of hope – Bug Baron Exterminator. This local extermination company is dedicated to protecting homes and businesses in the Inland Empire and San Bernardino County from termite infestations. With years of experience in the field, Bug Baron Exterminator has become a trusted name in the region for termite inspections, treatments, and fumigation.

  1. Thorough Inspections

A key service Bug Baron Exterminator provides is thorough termite inspections. The company’s trained professionals conduct comprehensive assessments of properties, identifying any signs of termite infestations. These inspections are crucial for early detection, allowing prompt action to prevent further damage.

  1. Targeted Treatments

Once a termite infestation is confirmed, Bug Baron Exterminator employs targeted treatment methods to eliminate the pests. They use eco-friendly and effective solutions to eradicate termites while minimizing the impact on the environment and the property itself. Their experienced technicians ensure that the treatment is tailored to each client’s specific needs.

  1. Professional Tent Fumigations

In cases where termite infestations are severe, fumigation may be necessary. Bug Baron Exterminator utilizes state-of-the-art fumigation techniques that are safe and efficient. They take all necessary precautions to protect residents’ health and the property’s integrity during the fumigation process.

  1. Preventative Measures

Bug Baron Exterminator doesn’t stop at eliminating existing termite infestations. They also offer preventative measures to safeguard properties from future infestations. Implementing proactive strategies and regular maintenance they help clients ensure that termites do not return to wreak havoc.

Customer Satisfaction

What sets Bug Baron Exterminator apart is their unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. They understand the distress that termite infestations can cause and work diligently to provide effective solutions while maintaining open communication with their clients. Their team is not only skilled but also friendly and approachable, making the entire process as stress-free as possible for property owners.

Conclusion

Termites remain a persistent threat to homes and businesses in Southern California, causing significant damage and financial strain each year. However, with local heroes like Bug Baron Exterminator serving the Inland Empire and San Bernardino County, property owners can take action to protect their investments. Through thorough inspections, targeted treatments, safe fumigations, and preventative measures, Bug Baron Exterminator is dedicated to keeping termites at bay and ensuring the safety and integrity of properties in the region. Don’t let termites be the silent destroyers of your Southern California dream – turn to Bug Baron Exterminator for expert assistance and peace of mind.

Give Bug Baron Exterminator a call today!

Categories
Termite Control

Best Termite Control Company in Upland

Termites are known to silently cause immense damage to homes and businesses by literally eating the wooden frame of the building. Over time, the boards weaken and the structure can be compromised from the destruction caused by an infestation of termites.

In Upland, CA, Drywood and Subterranean termites can make their way into your home, causing you to pay thousands of dollars in repairs. To protect your largest investment, your home, from becoming termite food, you want the best termite control company on your team.

Inspection

Generally, a yearly inspection is recommended for most homeowners to protect their homes against termite damage. But depending on where you live and the different terrain or weather conditions, it may be recommended that you have a quarterly inspection or an inspection every six months.

A thorough termite inspector will look in areas around your home that provide the perfect environment for termites. For Subterranean termites, a water source is needed for them to thrive. Your technician will search under sinks, in humid basements, and in bathroom walls.

Drywood termites do not require a water source quite like their Subterranean relatives. A termite exterminator will look under wooden roof shingles, or even in the siding, or on the eaves of your home.

Treatment

After the inspection is complete, your termite inspector will inform you of any termites or signs of termites that have been found. Depending on the type of termite that has infested your home, your trusted Upland pest technician will develop the proper treatment plan for your situation. Hopefully, the inspection caught the infestation early so your repair costs will be minimal. But by not having a routine termite inspection, you could be leaving yourself vulnerable to astronomical repair expenses if the termites have been living in your home for years.

Infestation growth

A termite colony can begin with one pregnant female termite. The queen termite can produce thousands of eggs in a single day. Many Subterranean termite nests can have up to two million members before they begin sending out termites to start new colonies.

With mild weather in Upland, CA, termite queens may produce eggs year around, causing the infestation to steadily grow. A structure of a house can be devastated after about five or six years of having a termite infestation.

Call in an expert

Do not let your Upland home become termite food. Having the best termite control company on your side means not only will you stop termites from eating your home, you can stop them from coming inside in the first place. For Upland residents who want the best, call Bug Baron Exterminator. Our experienced and professional technicians will carefully inspect and treat your home so you can rest assured that your home is safe and sound.

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Termite Control

How Do I Know If I Have a Drywood Termite Problem?

Termites are bad news no matter which type of termites has infested your home. Even though Subterranean termites cause a majority of the damage in the U.S., Drywood termites can be just as devastating if they are in your home. Some warning signs of a Drywood termite infestation may be less well known to homeowners, which could give these termites more time to munch on your home before you discover the damage they have caused. If you notice any signs of termites in your home, it is important that you call a professional termite exterminator as soon as possible. Eradicating termites can be difficult and a professional will know how and where to best treat them so that the problem is eliminated before more damage is done.

Signs of Drywood termites

Because Drywood termites live inside the wooden walls and eat the wood, you will not see them walking around your home. But knowing what to look for will help you keep a sharp eye out for signs of Drywood termites.

  • Frass: Termite droppings that have six sides and resemble sawdust can be found under light fixtures, next to walls, or in the basement.
  • Shed wings: Drywood termites do not tunnel their way into your home. They send out their swarmer termites to fly up to your house and find a way inside.
  • Eating habits: Unlike other termites who eat the cellulose, or soft part of the wood, Drywood termites can eat across the grain, producing large, smooth feeding galleries inside the walls.
  • Paper thin woodwork: Because Drywood termites eat all parts of the wood, they will leave a paper thin outside layer in your trim, furniture, or floor that can appear warped when it is actually just hollow.

Treatment

If you have noticed any signs of Drywood termites or are due for a termite inspection, give a highly trusted pest control company a call as soon as you can. The termite exterminator will thoroughly inspect your attic, floor, woodwork, and wooden furniture for signs of termites. If a small infestation is identified, the technician will administer a localized treatment by inserting termicide into the colony.

If the termite infestation is more widespread, the experienced technician may recommend fumigating your home. Unfortunately, this means staying out of the home for about three nights so your home can be tented and the fumigant can be pumped into every part of your house. Once the fumigation clears from the air and a professional tests the air quality in your home, you can return.

To prevent termites from coming back into your home, you can have the wood in your attic and crawl spaces treated for termites to prevent them from infesting your home in the future.

If you discover signs of Drywood termites, give Bug Baron Exterminator a call today. We will get rid of every last termite so you can relax knowing your home won’t end up as insect food.

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Termite Control

Termite Prevention Tips for Upland, CA Homeowners

The thought of a termite infestation can cause serious stress for Upland homeowners. The damage an undiscovered termite colony can do to your home is devastating. Termite colonies average in size from about 5,000 to 2 million termites depending on the species. Every last one of those termites is hungry, and if they are in your home, your house is on the menu. Though termites stay out of sight and quietly eat the cellulose out of the wood in your house, there are ways for you to prevent this hidden threat from literally eating you out of house and home.

Protect your home from the outside

Unless you have an easy entry point for termites to fly in, termites can not simply waltz into your home. They have to find a way in and many times they try to come in through the foundation. Keeping a close eye on your foundation whether slab or on piers, is an excellent way to keep your Upland home safe.

Termites will create mud tunnels to conceal themselves as they get close to your foundation and look for small cracks or holes to enter your home.

Be sure that mulch in your flower beds or even the soil do not come up above your foundation line. In general, it is a good idea to not let anything directly touch your foundation. Termites can infest mulch and if the mulch is up against your foundation, termites have food and time to find the best place for entry into your house.

Prevent water from attracting termites inside your home

 If termites have chosen your home to be their home, they have found an efficient amount of food in the wood in your walls and a water source to sustain their colony if they are Subterranean termites.

 If you have small water leaks in your home, fixing these issues immediately will keep your home from looking like the perfect place for termites to live.

Roof damage during winter months can cause just enough water to come in to quench the thirst of a colony of termites. Be sure to check for any outside damage that may let water into the home.

Termite inspections

To make sure termites are not eating your home from the inside out, set up a regular termite inspection. You can do your best to keep your foundation clear of debris and your home water tight, but having trained eyes to look for evidence of termites and knowing what to do when they find them is the best way to protect your home.

A termite inspector is the best line of defense against termites. Having a trained, experienced Upland technician inspecting your property at least once a year will keep termites out of your home or will stop their infestation early, to prevent your home from being destroyed by termites.

In Upland, CA, give Bug Baron Exterminator a call today.

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Termite Control

Top 3 Signs You Have a Termite Problem

Termites can really cause some serious damage to a structure. While they are constantly eating the wooden beams and frame of a home, the queen termite cranks out thousands of eggs a day. Termites are relatively quiet and stay hidden deep within your walls, floor, or ceiling so you may not know they are there for months or even years. To minimize the damage, you want to catch any termite problem early. To be able to identify an infestation, you have to know what the top 3 signs are that tell you that you have a termite problem.

1. Look for piles of wood pellets on the floor

As termites munch away at your home, they produce large piles of excrement that resemble sawdust. These piles are called frass and you may look for them underneath windows, below wall hangings, or directly beneath light fixtures. As the termite tunnels become full of chewed up and biologically processed cellulose, the termites make little holes in your walls and ceiling to push the frass out of their home and into your’s.

2. Evidence outside

Termites have to get inside your home first before they can start wreaking havoc. They will often leave evidence of their entry outside your home. Look for mud tunnels on the foundation. Termites do not come out into the open air so they create mud tunnels that allow them to get close to your home so they can find a way inside.

You may also find shed wings from swarmer termites outside of your windows. When a swarmer termite lands, they will shed the wings as they start hunting for a way to get inside your home to begin a new colony.

3. Swarmers pouring out of the walls

In the spring, a termite colony will produce swarmer termites who will fly off in search of more homes to destroy with new termite infestations. The swarmers will spill out of a hole in the wall into the interior of your house. If you are home during the swarm, you will definitely be aware of the termites covering your floor and walls. Be sure to locate exactly where the termites are coming from so you can tell your trusted exterminator when they arrive. Likely, the swarm will be over by the time the exterminator is able to come to your home.

Call a professional termite exterminator

If you see any of these three signs of a termite infestation, call your termite exterminator as soon as possible. You do not want a termite colony living in your home a minute longer than they have to. If you are in Upland, CA, give our trusted team at Bug Baron Exterminator a call today.

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Termite Control

Do Termites Cause Expensive Damage?

The scariest part about termites is that they can eat away at your home for a long time without you even knowing they are there. This allows the damage they create to get much worse before you start treating your home for termites. Because termites affect the wooden frame of your home, the hidden damage can really be a blow to your wallet when you finally start to repair the destruction caused by termites.

Every year in the US, termites cause billions of dollars worth of damage. The average homeowner who discovers termite damage will spend about $3,000 on repairs. That can be devastating, especially in this economy with inflation already making everyday expenses difficult.

Prevention

Keeping termites away from your home is key to not having to pay a dime in termite damage repairs. A few ways you can prevent termites from choosing your house as their new home and meal are:

  • Keep wood piles away from the home
  • Remove dead, fallen trees or old stumps from your yard
  • Make sure soil around the exterior of your home is not above your foundation
  • Keep shrubs and trees near your home from touching your siding or roof
  • Quickly repair any leaks or drips inside
  • Make sure your roof is in good condition
  • Have a yearly termite inspection

Termite inspection

Termites are experts at getting inside your home. Some try to get in by flying inside while others build elaborate mud tunnels so the colony can enter your home without being exposed to sunshine. While you can definitely keep an eye out for signs of termites as well as use prevention measures to keep the termites out, the single best way to safeguard your home against termites is to have a termite exterminator to routinely check your home for termites.

Depending on how at risk your home is for developing a termite problem, you may have a termite inspection every six months to a year. Once your home gets the all clear from a termite inspector, any new termite invasion will first have to find your home, find a way inside, start the colony, and begin eating. A routine  inspection greatly reduces how much damage the colony can make before the next inspection.

What kind of treatment does my home need?

Depending on where you live and the humidity around your home, a termite exterminator will decide on the best way to protect your home from termites. A few ways to treat for termites and prevent them from coming back are:

  • Preventative barrier around your home in the the soil that kills any termite that gets into the treatment
  • Bait stations outside that entice worker termites to bring poisoned food back to the colony.
  • Preventative exposed wood treatment in the attic or any accessible crawl spaces
  • Localized treatment when the technician discovers the location of the termites
  • Fumigation when the infestation is wide spread or in difficult to reach areas of the home

For the best termite extermination services in Upland, CA, give Bug Baron Exterminator a call today.

Categories
Termite Control

How Often Should I Have a Termite Inspection?

Termites can cause extensive damage to your home. The most difficult part about a termite infestation is that this pest is not out in the open where you can easily see it. Termites can be eating away at your home for months before you even realize they are there. By the time you discover you have termites, you may have costly damage in need of repair. In addition, the size of the termite colony may be enormous, making it difficult to eradicate.

To keep from paying outrageous repair bills, the best line of defense against termites is prevention. You can learn the signs of termites and keep out a sharp eye to protect your home. But the single best way to prevent termites from literally eating you out of house and home is to at least have a yearly termite inspection.

If you have had termite damage before, you know you definitely do not want to go down that road again. You may want to set up a regular termite inspection every six months to ensure that any termite damage is kept to a minimum.

Thorough inspection

An initial termite inspection is when a termite control technician comes to your home and looks in key areas for possible termite activity. For a termite colony to thrive, the termites need food and water in order to support their growing colony. Your house is already full of their food in the form of wood.

As soon as the termites find a water source in the form of a leaky pipe or even a humid basement, they will be good to go.  A termite exterminator will definitely want to inspect places where water is allowed to accumulate or drip to make sure termites aren’t using it as a water source.

An experienced termite control technician will not need to tear apart your home in order to find the termites. They will look around pipes and in cool places like in basements or up in the attic for any damaged wood or wood that appears warped and blistered.

If there is any paneling that can be easily removed near pipes in the walls, the technician will want to take a look.

But termite activity can be found outdoors as well. The inspector will look around the foundation for signs of Subterranean Termites who make mud tunnels attached to the foundation.

Peace of mind

While setting up a regular termite inspection when you have not seen signs of termites may seem extreme, the comfort of knowing that your home is termite free is well worth making a simple recurring appointment with a termite inspector. The average amount of termite damage can cost as much as $3000. While in severe infestations, the cost is much higher. Don’t take that risk.

Give Bug Baron Exterminator in Upland, CA a call today for your initial termite inspection.