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Termite Troubles

Q: What do I need to look for when checking around my house for termites? — Jason in Tampa, Fla.

A: Inspecting your home for termite infestation on a regular basis can make a big difference in the amount you’d have to pay to eradicate them, should there be a problem. Most homeowners aren’t able to decisively confirm that a termite infestation exists, but there are telltale signs to watch for:

—Dirt tunnels on the house’s masonry foundation and on pipes traveling through the foundation.

—Crumbly areas inside masonry cracks or holes.

—Small dirt-like formations inside cracks or holes. These could be termite nests.

—In wooden areas of the house, especially those close to the ground, look for rotten or decayed spots. Use a pocketknife to poke into the spot; if it penetrates a half-inch or more, you might have a termite problem.

If you notice any of these suspicious signs, contact an exterminator to do a more thorough inspection of your house and start treating for termites. Be sure to get a written estimate of the work to be done before allowing the exterminator to start treatment.

How do you prevent termites? In addition to scheduling a professional inspection and preventive treatment once per year, keep moisture from affecting the house — particularly at the foundation. Don’t allow standing water near the foundation. If that’s a problem after rains, improve drainage away from the area. Trim back hedges and plants to about 1 foot from the foundation so pests can’t work their way into the house from them. Fill and seal cracks in outside masonry.

HOME TIP: If termites are a big problem in your area, talk to a contractor about installing a sand barrier around your home’s foundation, a method that will discourage the pests from getting into your house.

Send your questions or tips to ask@thisisahammer.com, or write This Is a Hammer, c/o King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475.

(c) 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.