Have your doors and windows become increasingly difficult to open or shut? The woodwork of your home is the greatest enemy. Wood-destroying organisms are a major threat to your home. One of the first signs is the damage your windows and doors have been causing. WDO like termites and carpenter ants cause $5 billion in damage to the U.S. each year.
The structural integrity of your home is at risk from these tiny organisms, which are often invisible. They begin by silently and relentlessly eating through wooden beams and floor joists. The foundation of your home will be weakened and unstable.
What are the possible results? What are the most common results? WDO infestations can also be an entry point for other problems to enter your property. Moisture intrusion can lead to mold growth and wood decay (again).
What should you do to mitigate these problems? An inspection by the WDO. This blog will discuss the solution in more detail.
What Is A WDO Inspection?
The best way to find out if tiny creatures are eating your wood is by conducting a Wood Destroying Organisms inspection. Some examples of these creatures include:
- Termites
- Carpenter ants
- Wood-boring insects
- Wood-decaying fungi
What Happens During A WDO Inspection?
A licensed professional inspects the interior and exterior of the property. The inspection focuses on areas with wood, like:
- Attics
- Crawl spaces
- Wooden decks
Inspectors are trained to look for obvious and hidden signs that indicate infestations. If you notice them, you may ignore them because they’re not serious. Guess what? Guess what? Frass, mud-tubes, hollow-sounding wooden, discarded insects wings, and visible damages are all signs.
They also assess the levels of moisture in the house, since high-moisture areas are conducive for WDO infestations. The inspector will evaluate the structural integrity and damage of wood components. He or she will then provide a detailed inspection report that highlights the presence of WDOs and the extent of damage.
How Long Does A WDO Inspection Take?
The length of time it takes to conduct a WDO Inspection in Jacksonville depends on how large and in good condition the property is. It may take less time if your house has less wood or is smaller. WDO inspections of larger properties, with extensive wooden structures can take up to two hours.
Why Is WDO Inspection Important?
A WDO inspection is essential to protect the structural integrity and value of your property. These inspections can help detect pests which may be causing damage to wooden structures. This could lead to expensive repairs or safety hazards.
Early detection of WDO organisms can help you to address infestations prior to their becoming severe. This prevents extensive damage to your home and helps preserve its value. WDO inspections can also give you peace of mind by ensuring your home is free of destructive pests. Regular WDO inspections can be considered a proactive way to maintain a home that is both safe and valuable.
When Should You Schedule A WDO Inspection?
To ensure your property’s safety and integrity, you can schedule a WDO inspection at various times. Before buying a house, you should perform a WDO to discover any hidden pest problems that could lead to expensive repairs. You should schedule regular WDO checks, ideally every year or twice a year, especially in areas that are prone to WDO invasions. It will allow you to catch problems before they turn into expensive surprises.
You can also request a WDO (apart form a regular inspection) if there are any signs of infestation, such as:
- Frass
- Mud tubes
- Damaged wood
A WDO inspection is also recommended after major renovations and changes to the structure of your home. This will ensure that no new vulnerabilities are introduced. You can protect your home from the damaging effects of wood-destroying insects by scheduling WDO inspections in a timely manner.
What Is The Cost Of A WDO Inspection?
The cost of an inspection by a WDO depends on a number of factors. These include the size and location of the property as well as the rates charged by the inspection company. The average WDO inspection costs between $75 and 150. If your home is large or if you need additional services, such as moisture testing, then the price will be higher. It is best to get a quote from your preferred company directly and see what services they offer.
Conclusion
You must now be wondering who pays for the WDO inspection. The local real estate laws and negotiation between buyers and sellers will determine who pays for the WDO inspection. It is more common for homebuyers to be expected to pay the WDO and to have one conducted (for all of the reasons we’ve mentioned). It is better to have a inspection done with a WDO.
In some cases, however, sellers will pay the inspection upfront to attract buyers, or to negotiate the price during the sales process. In most cases, the parties to the sale will have agreed on who pays for the WDO.
Find expert wood care services at hildreth home inspections. Protect your home against termite damage and pests with tailored treatments or WDO inspections. Schedule your inspection now!