WOOD dESTROYING ORGANISM (wDO)

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Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) inspections are specialized inspections to help locate and identify potential wood damaging insects. These inspections require a special license and form per the state of Ohio. 

What we look for..

1. Termites- Termites are the only insect on this list that actually feed off of wood. Most insects simply burrow into the wood to form nests however Termites live and eat the wood fibers. This can result in extensive damages to wooden structures. Termites require higher moisture levels and can usually be treated for with maintenance, water management, and insecticides. 
2. Carpenter Ants- Carpenter Ants typically have a main nest in large trees around your home, they then spread "satellite nests that typically end up being your garage or attic space. Carpenter Ants don't digest wood fibers but can still form large colonies doing damage to wooden components. It is important to keep trees and other vegetation trimmed back from structures to help reduce the chances of Carpenter Ants.  
3. Carpenter Bees- Carpenter Bees form almost perfect holes in wooden components to nest. Unlike ants these bees only lay eggs in the bore holes and don't form complete nests however they can reuse these bore holes over and over resulting in more damages. It is important to keep exterior wooden components painted to help prevent carpenter bees from nesting. 
4. Powder Post Beetles- These beetles include multiple species of tiny beetles that form numerous pin holes in timber.  Powder Post Beetles are typically only found in older century homes with wooden timbers and old furniture. They require large amounts of moisture to nest and are not typically a problem in modern homes.