Slab Homes and Termites?
Many home buyers mistakenly believe that slab homes are immune to termite infestations. After all, there’s no crawl space, and the house sits on a solid concrete foundation, right? Unfortunately, that’s a myth! Termites can and do infest slab homes, often gaining entry through cracks in the concrete, expansion joints, or plumbing penetrations.
The Silent Invaders
Subterranean termites, the most common type, live in the soil and need moisture to survive. Slab foundations can trap moisture, creating an ideal environment for these pests. They build mud tubes—narrow tunnels made of soil, saliva, and feces—to travel from their underground colonies to their food source: the wood in your home.
Mud Tubes: A Red Flag
Finding termite mud tubes is a telltale sign of infestation. These tubes, often about the width of a pencil, provide termites with a protected, humid pathway. In a slab home, look for them:
- Along the foundation, both inside and outside.
- Near plumbing or utility penetrations.
- In garages, especially along expansion joints.
- Behind siding or other exterior finishes.
Why a Termite Inspection is Crucial
Even if you don’t see mud tubes, a professional termite inspection is a wise investment. Termite damage can go undetected for years, weakening the structure of your home. Inspectors are trained to identify subtle signs of termite activity that homeowners might miss.
