Mud
Tubes
at Slab
Subterranean termites are often discovered by looking for mud
tubes as seen in the photo above. However, many home designs make it difficult to
spot these mud tubes due to plants, bushes, and landscaping materials such as wood chips
that are pushed up against the home.
Siding materials that extend to the ground (or below) make it
virtually impossible to detect mud tubes because the termites can creep up behind the
siding without building the mud tubes at all. As a result, homes with stucco or wood
siding should be cut back to allow visual access to the slab all along the perimeter of
the building (see photo above).
Upon closer inspection (CLICK on image to zoom in),
we see that termites have also infested the wall. As a result, the interior wall
(drywall) should be removed to look for any concealed termite damage inside the wood
framing members (studs).
The result is a potentially expensive repair and largely
preventable condition.
click on image above to
enlarge
The digital photo above was taken by a
Guardian® home inspector during a pre-purchase home
inspection.
- Looking for a home?
Check out our Dream Home Condition Search™ -- the only Internet home
search that allows you to learn about the CONDITION of the home before you see it.
- Building a Home?
Make sure your Dream Home is a Good Home™ with Guardian® New Home Inspections.
|
