Defects ...

Pest Control Issues

A pest may be defined as any living organism or plant causing harm or damage to people, their animals.  Infestation caused by pests like insects or other animals can spell frustration for homeowners and possibly structural damage to a home. 

While some pests like flies and earwigs are more a nuisance, other creatures like termites, carpenter ants and rodents can cause a considerable amount of damage and can greatly impact a home's value. 

Termites -

Termites are ground insects that require food, moisture, and shelter close to ground level.  In areas where termites are a problem, it's not uncommon to find wood that has been virtually hollowed out, disintegrating under the slightest pressure. 

Any place where wood meets the ground makes an ideal place for termites, especially if the soil is often moist.  Keeping moisture away from the home's foundation and eliminating any moisture problems in crawlspaces and basements is key in preventing termite infestation. 

For more information visit:
Penn State University’s Entomological Notes on Termites

Ants -

There are a variety of ants.  All can be difficult to get rid of once they set up nests and all are attracted to sources of food.  Although all ants are a pest, carpenter ants can be most destructive, hollowing out wood to build their nests.  Sometimes mistaken for termites, a colony of carpenter ants often has multiple nests and all of the nests, some of which may be outside, must be destroyed to get rid of the problem. 

For more information visit:
University of Kentucky Entomology Department’s fact sheet on Carpenter Ants
Penn State University’s Entomological Notes on Carpenter Ants

Bees -

Like ants, there are a variety of bees and most are at worst a nuisance.  However, Carpenter Bees can be quite destructive, boring holes in the eves of homes for shelter and to rear their young.  Carpenter bees prefer to drill into unpainted wood that is relatively thick but have been known to bore into thinner shingles, window sills, roof eaves, and lawn furniture as well. 

For more information on Carpenter Bees and how to control them visit:
Penn State University’s Entomological Notes on Carpenter Bees

Rodents -

Rodents such as rats and mice may cause structural problems, but the real trouble lies in what they chew through.  Wires, woodwork, plastic, even pipes... and of course, rodent dropping are a potential health hazard.  In addition to the rodent droppings, telltale signs include nests in attic insulation and chewed woodwork.  Rodents, especially rats, carry disease so it is best to get them out of your home immediately. 

For more information, the University of California publishes consumer fact sheets on both House Mice and Rats

Information on other pests, can be found on the National Pest Management Association website. 

Related topics: Common Defects | Environmental Issues