Risks of Buying a Home with Older Standard EIFS

Hidden Dangers Lurking Beneath: Why Older EIFS Homes May Cost You Thousands

Many home buyers face tough choices when looking at houses with older EIFS siding. EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) is a type of synthetic stucco that was popular in the 1980s and 1990s.

Older EIFS systems often lack proper drainage, which can lead to water damage, mold, and rot inside your walls. This guide will help you spot problems, understand the risks, and make smart choices about EIFS homes.

Read on to protect your investment.

Key Takeaways

• Older EIFS homes (built in 1980s-1990s) often lack drainage systems, trapping water inside walls that causes hidden rot and mold.
• Repair costs for EIFS water damage range from $15,000 to $100,000, and many insurance companies won’t cover these repairs.
• Always get a moisture test from a trained EIFS inspector before buying, as damage isn’t visible until problems become severe.
• Pre-2000 EIFS systems were designed as “barrier systems” with no way for water to escape once it gets behind the surface.
• Homeowners can upgrade older EIFS by adding drainage systems, replacing damaged sections, or switching to modern cladding options.

What is EIFS?

EIFS stands for Exterior Insulation and Finish System, a synthetic stucco wall covering that became popular in the 1980s. This multi-layered wall system uses foam insulation boards covered with a thin coat of synthetic material to create a smooth, stucco-like finish.

Definition and history of EIFS

EIFS stands for Exterior Insulation and Finish System. This wall cladding first came to America in the 1960s from Europe. Builders liked it because it was cheap and looked like real stucco.

The early EIFS had no way for water to drain out if it got behind the surface. This “barrier system” caused big problems in wet areas. Many homes built with old EIFS in the 1980s and 1990s suffered from water damage and mold growth.

The trapped moisture would rot the wood frame inside walls without showing signs on the outside. Home inspectors now check EIFS homes very carefully because of these past issues.

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The original EIFS systems were like sealed boxes – great at keeping water out until they failed, then they trapped moisture with nowhere to go, notes Jeff Johnson, a building envelope expert with 25 years of experience.

Next, we’ll look at how EIFS differs from traditional stucco in both looks and function.

Composition and materials used in EIFS

Now that you know what EIFS is, let’s look at what it’s made of. EIFS consists of several layers that work together as a system. The base layer attaches to the wall with adhesive or mechanical fasteners.

Next comes the insulation board, usually made of expanded polystyrene foam (EPS). This foam gives EIFS its energy-saving qualities. A fiberglass mesh covers the foam for strength. Then a basecoat bonds to the mesh, creating a tough surface.

The final layer is the finish coat – a colored, textured material that gives EIFS its stucco-like look.

Each layer in EIFS plays a key role in how the system works. The foam provides insulation while the mesh and basecoat add durability. The outer finish coat protects against weather damage.

Older standard EIFS lacks a drainage plane, which is why water can get trapped inside walls. This trapped moisture leads to rot, mold, and structural damage that may cost thousands to fix.

Newer EIFS systems include drainage features to prevent these moisture problems.

Differences Between EIFS and Traditional Stucco

EIFS and traditional stucco look similar from a distance but have key differences in how they work. EIFS uses foam boards and synthetic materials while stucco is made from cement, sand, and lime – creating major contrasts in how they handle water and last over time.

Appearance

EIFS looks a lot like traditional stucco from a distance. It has a smooth, clean finish that many homeowners find attractive. The outer layer can be tinted in many colors and shaped into different textures.

This gives homes a custom look without the cost of real stone or brick. Many people can’t tell the difference between EIFS and stucco without touching it or looking very closely.

The beauty of EIFS can mask serious problems hiding beneath its surface.

Unlike regular stucco, EIFS feels slightly softer and more plastic-like when touched. It’s also lighter in weight. The seams between panels might be visible in older systems, showing where sections meet.

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These joints often crack first and let water in. The smooth look of EIFS has made it popular for modern homes, but this same perfect finish can hide water damage until it becomes severe.

Installation process

EIFS installation needs several key steps to work right. First, crews attach foam boards to the wall with adhesive or screws. Next, they cover these boards with a base coat and embed mesh for strength.

The final step adds a finish coat that gives the wall its color and texture. Unlike traditional stucco that needs three coats of cement-based material, EIFS goes up faster and with fewer layers.

Many problems with older EIFS come from rushed or sloppy work during this process. Missing water barriers, poor seals around windows, and skipped drainage systems lead to big trouble later.

The proper setup must include flashing, caulking, and weep screeds to keep water out. Sadly, many homes built before 2000 lack these vital parts. Without them, rain slips behind the surface and gets trapped.

This trapped moisture causes rot in the wood frame that you can’t see until major damage happens. A home with older standard EIFS might look fine on the outside while hiding serious issues within the walls.

Durability

After the EIFS installation is complete, many homeowners wonder about how long it will last. Standard EIFS offers decent durability when properly installed, lasting 20-30 years with good maintenance.

The outer layer resists impacts better than traditional stucco in most cases. Yet older EIFS systems often lack proper moisture barriers, making them prone to water damage over time.

Moisture is the biggest enemy of EIFS durability. Water that gets trapped behind the surface can rot wood framing and create mold problems that aren’t visible until major damage occurs.

Freeze-thaw cycles cause extra stress on older systems, leading to cracking and delamination of the finish coat. Homes in wet climates face higher risks of these durability issues, which may not be covered by standard home insurance policies.

Cost differences

EIFS typically costs more upfront than traditional stucco. Homeowners pay about 20-30% more for EIFS installation compared to regular stucco. This price gap comes from the special materials and skilled labor needed for proper EIFS application.

The initial higher price often attracts buyers who focus on short-term savings rather than long-term costs.

Repair costs create the biggest price difference between these options. Fixing water damage in older EIFS homes can run from $15,000 to $100,000 depending on how bad the damage is.

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Traditional stucco repairs usually cost much less because problems show up faster before causing major structural harm. Many insurance policies don’t cover EIFS damage, leaving homeowners to pay these steep bills themselves.

Common Problems with Older Standard EIFS

Older standard EIFS systems often hide serious problems like water damage, mold growth, and rotting wood that can cost thousands to fix—read on to learn how these issues can wreck your home and drain your wallet.

Moisture intrusion

Moisture intrusion ranks as the top problem with older EIFS homes. Water seeps behind the EIFS through tiny cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and other openings. This trapped water can’t escape because standard EIFS lacks a drainage system.

Over time, this moisture causes the wood framing to rot and creates perfect spots for mold to grow. Many homeowners don’t notice these issues until major damage has occurred since the problems stay hidden inside walls.

The repair costs for moisture damage in EIFS homes can be very high. Water leaks into EIFS can soak the wood frame for months or years before signs appear. Insurance often won’t cover this type of damage, leaving owners to pay for repairs out of pocket.

A proper moisture test by a trained inspector is vital before buying any home with older EIFS. These tests use special tools to find wet spots that regular home inspections might miss.

Mold and structural decay

Mold grows fast in homes with older EIFS systems due to trapped water. This happens because standard EIFS lacks proper drainage, creating ideal conditions for fungi to thrive. The significant problem exists beneath the surface – water seeps into wall frames and stays there.

Wood rot damages your home’s structure, often hidden until major damage occurs. Many homeowners face repair bills in the thousands when this decay is found.

The health risks present an additional concern. Mold releases spores that can trigger allergies and breathing problems for your family. Tests often show that EIFS homes with water issues have high mold counts inside wall cavities.

The wood framing stays wet for long periods, which accelerates rot and weakens your home’s basic structure. This combination of mold and decay not only hurts your home’s value but might make it difficult to sell later on.

Cracking and delamination

Older EIFS homes often show cracks and peeling layers. These issues happen when the outer coating splits or pulls away from the foam board beneath it. Small hairline cracks might seem minor, but they create paths for water to enter your walls.

Once water gets in, it can’t escape from standard EIFS systems that lack proper drainage.

The damage gets worse over time. Freeze-thaw cycles make small cracks bigger each year. Expansion joints might be missing, which lets normal house movement cause more cracks. Many homeowners don’t spot these problems until serious damage has occurred to the wood frame inside.

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A moisture meter test can find wet spots before visible signs appear on your walls.

Hidden damage within walls

EIFS walls can hide serious problems you can’t see. Water that gets behind the outer layer often stays trapped. This leads to rot in wood frames and mold growth that spreads unseen for years.

Many homeowners find out too late that their walls are damaged. A moisture test is the only way to spot these hidden issues before they cause major harm.

Home inspectors need special tools to check for this damage. The wood inside your walls can stay wet for long periods, causing it to weaken over time. This creates repair costs that may reach thousands of dollars.

Insurance companies often refuse to cover these repairs if they stem from poor EIFS installation or lack of proper care. The worst part? You might not notice any signs until the damage is severe.

Risks of Buying a Home with Older Standard EIFS

Buying a home with older EIFS can lead to major repair bills that many buyers don’t expect. Poor installation and lack of drainage systems often cause hidden water damage that may not show up during a basic home check.

Poor installation issues

Poor EIFS installation causes most water damage problems in homes. Contractors often skip key steps or use wrong materials during the setup process. Missing kickout flashing, bad window seals, and improper seaming create entry points for water.

This trapped moisture can’t escape from older EIFS systems that lack drainage paths. Many installers in the 1980s and 1990s weren’t trained properly on EIFS methods, leading to widespread issues.

The wood frame behind poorly installed EIFS stays wet, causing rot that remains hidden for years.

Fixing these installation mistakes costs homeowners thousands of dollars. Insurance companies may deny claims for EIFS water damage, calling it a “construction defect.” Homes with older standard EIFS face higher repair bills because the damage spreads inside walls before it becomes visible.

Moisture testing often reveals problems in homes that look fine from the outside. Proper EIFS setup requires special skills and attention to detail at all joints, edges, and penetration points.

Lack of proper drainage systems

Older EIFS homes often lack proper water drainage paths. This design flaw traps moisture inside walls instead of letting it escape. Water gets in through tiny cracks around windows, doors, and joints.

With nowhere to go, this trapped moisture causes wood to rot and mold to grow. Many pre-2000 EIFS installations have this problem, making them risky purchases.

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Proper drainage is vital for any exterior wall system. Modern EIFS includes drainage planes and weep holes that allow water to exit. Older systems were built as “barrier systems” that assumed water would never get in.

This faulty thinking has led to massive repair bills for many homeowners. Fixing these issues can cost thousands of dollars and may not be covered by insurance or home warranties.

Potential for high repair costs

Fixing problems with older EIFS can empty your wallet fast. Homeowners often face bills of $15,000 to $50,000 for full repairs when water damage has spread. These costs jump even higher if the moisture has caused rot in the wood frame or created mold inside your walls.

Most standard insurance policies won’t cover these repairs because they view EIFS problems as maintenance issues rather than sudden damage.

Money troubles don’t stop at just fixing the EIFS. You’ll need to pay for moisture testing ($500-$1,000), mold removal (up to $10,000), and possibly replacing damaged drywall and insulation.

The worst part? These expenses often hit all at once, not gradually over time. Many property owners have faced lawsuits over EIFS issues, adding legal fees to the already steep repair costs.

Getting quotes from contractors who know EIFS systems is crucial before buying a home with this type of exterior.

Impact on home insurance and warranties

Older EIFS homes often face insurance troubles. Many companies charge higher rates or refuse coverage due to past water damage claims. Some policies may have special limits or exclude EIFS-related problems completely.

Homeowners might need to get special high-risk insurance that costs more and covers less.

Home warranties rarely protect against EIFS issues. Most standard warranties don’t cover water damage from poor installation or design flaws in the EIFS system. This leaves homeowners fully responsible for repair costs that can run into thousands of dollars.

Before buying, smart shoppers should check if the home’s current insurance covers EIFS and what limits exist on that coverage.

Importance of Regular EIFS Inspections and Repair

Regular checks of your EIFS walls can save you thousands in repair costs. Most water damage happens slowly, hidden behind your walls where you can’t see it. A yearly inspection by a skilled EIFS expert can spot small cracks or gaps before they cause big problems.

These pros use special tools to check moisture levels without damaging your walls. They look at seals around windows, doors, and other spots where water might get in.

Fixing small EIFS issues right away stops them from growing into major headaches. Prompt repairs protect the wood frame of your home from rot and mold growth. Many insurance companies won’t cover damage from long-term water leaks in EIFS homes.

This makes quick action even more vital for homeowners. The cost of a yearly check-up is tiny compared to fixing rotted wood or removing harmful mold. Next, we’ll talk about how to assess the condition of EIFS in a home you might want to buy.

Assessing the Condition of EIFS in a Home

A trained EIFS inspector can spot issues that most home buyers miss during a walk-through. Moisture meters and thermal imaging tools help find hidden water damage that could cost you thousands in repairs later.

Importance of pre-purchase inspections

Pre-purchase inspections are vital before buying a home with older EIFS. A trained expert can spot water damage that often hides behind this synthetic stucco system. Many homeowners face huge repair bills because they skipped this step.

Your inspector should use moisture meters to check for hidden leaks and rot in the wall cavity. These tests can reveal problems that normal eyes miss.

Getting a full EIFS inspection protects your investment and helps with price talks. If the test shows water intrusion or substrate damage, you can ask for repairs or lower the price.

Some buyers walk away from EIFS homes with bad reports since fixing these issues can cost thousands. Smart buyers make their offers depend on passing these special stucco inspections.

Moisture testing and evaluation

Moisture tests are vital tools for checking EIFS homes before you buy. Experts use special meters to find hidden water damage that your eyes can’t see. These tests detect dampness inside walls where mold and rot often hide.

Many EIFS homes suffer from water getting trapped behind the siding, causing wood frames to stay wet and decay over time. A good inspector will scan the entire exterior, paying close attention to areas around windows, doors, and roof lines where leaks commonly start.

Getting a full moisture check costs money but saves thousands in future repairs. The test results show exactly where water has entered the walls and how bad the damage might be. This info helps you decide if the house needs minor fixes or major repairs.

Some tests also include thermal scans that spot cold spots where insulation has failed due to water damage. Your next step after testing is to look at options for fixing or upgrading older EIFS systems to prevent future problems.

Identifying signs of damage

After testing for moisture, you need to know what damage looks like on EIFS homes. Look for cracks larger than 1/16 inch in the surface. These cracks can let water seep behind the EIFS and cause big problems.

Bubbles or bulges in the finish coat signal trapped moisture that’s pushing outward. Dark spots or stains might show mold growth or water damage hiding underneath.

Pay close attention to areas around windows, doors, and roof joints. These spots often show the first signs of trouble. Soft spots when you press on the wall mean the wood frame behind may be rotting.

Peeling or flaking of the finish layer points to moisture breaking down the system from within. Homeowners should check these trouble spots every few months to catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs.

Options to Upgrade, Remove, or Repair Older EIFS

Older EIFS homes need fixes to stay safe and keep their value. Homeowners have several choices to deal with EIFS problems before they get worse.

1. Add a drainage system to existing EIFS – Professional contractors can install channels behind your current EIFS to help water flow out. This upgrade costs less than full replacement and helps prevent moisture damage.
2. Apply a waterproof coating – Special sealants can boost your EIFS protection against rain and snow. These coatings need to be reapplied every 5-7 years for best results.
3. Replace damaged sections only – If moisture testing shows problems in just some areas, you can fix only those parts. This targeted repair saves money compared to whole-house replacement.
4. Install proper flashing around windows and doors – Many water issues start at these openings. New metal flashing directs water away from your walls and stops leaks.
5. Remove EIFS and switch to modern cladding – Some homeowners choose to take off all EIFS and put on fiber cement, vinyl siding, or brick. This costs more but ends EIFS worries forever.
6. Upgrade to newer drainable EIFS – Today’s EIFS systems include built-in drainage planes that let water escape. This modern version fixes the main flaw in older systems.
7. Fix the wood structure first – If moisture has damaged your home’s frame, repair this before touching the EIFS. Rotted wood must be replaced to keep your home safe.
8. Seal all joints and seams – Cracks where EIFS meets windows, doors, and other materials let water in. Professional sealing stops these leaks and extends your EIFS life.

Next, we’ll explore how older standard EIFS affects your home’s resale value and what you can do about it.

Impact of Older Standard EIFS on Resale Value

Older EIFS homes often stay on the market longer than houses with other siding types. Buyers worry about hidden damage and future repair costs, which can drop your asking price by 5-15%.

Extended marketing time for EIFS-clad homes

Homes with older EIFS stucco often sit on the market longer than houses with other siding types. Real estate agents report that these properties can take 30-60 days longer to sell because buyers worry about moisture problems.

Many house hunters skip EIFS homes completely after learning about possible water damage, mold risks, and high repair costs. This buyer hesitation forces sellers to drop their asking price or offer repair credits.

Market data shows EIFS-clad homes may sell for 5-15% less than similar houses with different exteriors. Insurance companies add to this problem by charging higher premiums or refusing coverage for EIFS homes.

Smart sellers get a full EIFS inspection before listing and fix any issues found. This step builds trust with buyers and helps avoid the extended wait times that plague many EIFS home sales.

Potential stigma among buyers

Homes with older EIFS face a tough market reality. Many buyers shy away from these properties due to bad press and horror stories about water damage. Real estate agents often warn clients about EIFS homes, pointing out past lawsuits and repair nightmares.

This stigma can force sellers to drop prices by 10-15% just to attract offers. Some buyers walk away at the first mention of EIFS, not wanting to risk future problems with rot, mold, or costly fixes.

The fear factor extends to financing too. Lenders may require special EIFS inspections before approving loans. Insurance companies sometimes charge higher rates or limit coverage for EIFS homes.

Smart sellers address this stigma head-on by getting professional moisture tests and sharing repair records. The next section explains how to deal with these EIFS issues to protect your investment and improve your chances of a fair sale price.

Ways to mitigate resale value losses

Fix EIFS problems before listing your home for sale. Hire a professional to do moisture testing and make needed repairs. Getting a pre-listing inspection helps you find issues early.

You can also add proper drainage systems and update the EIFS to meet current building codes. Many buyers worry about EIFS homes, so keep all repair records and warranties to show them.

Some homeowners choose to replace older EIFS with newer systems that include water barriers. This step might cost more upfront but can boost your home’s value and attract more buyers.

Good photos of fixed areas in your listing will help ease buyer fears about past EIFS issues.

Signs it’s time to replace your EIFS instead of just fixing it include widespread water damage, large cracks, or repeated repair needs.

How to Address Issues with Older Standard EIFS

Fixing older EIFS problems starts with hiring certified pros who know these systems inside and out. You need experts who can spot hidden damage, fix water issues, and bring your home up to current building standards.

Professional repair and remediation options

EIFS repair needs experts who know what they’re doing. Most fixes involve cutting out bad sections, fixing the wood frame if it’s rotted, and putting in new EIFS with proper drainage.

Costs can range from small patch jobs ($500-$1,000) to full house remediation ($15,000-$50,000). Many homeowners don’t realize that improper EIFS installation leads to moisture issues that may not be covered by home insurance.

Hiring certified EIFS contractors is your best move for lasting repairs. These pros use moisture meters to find hidden damage and can install modern drainage systems behind the existing walls.

They’ll also check window flashings and door seals where water often gets in. The right repair team will follow manufacturer guidelines and provide warranties on their work, giving you peace of mind about your home’s exterior protection.

Implementing proper moisture management systems

Proper moisture control systems are vital for homes with older EIFS. These systems include drainage planes behind the EIFS, weep holes at the bottom, and proper flashing around windows and doors.

A good system lets water escape instead of getting trapped in walls. Many older EIFS homes lack these features, which leads to rot, mold, and major damage to wood framing. Installing these systems costs less than fixing water damage later.

Homeowners should check if their EIFS has a drainage system by looking for weep holes or consulting a stucco expert.

Upgrading your home’s moisture protection pays off in the long run. Modern EIFS includes a water-resistant barrier, drainage mat, and proper seals at all joints. These parts work together to keep water away from your walls.

Insurance companies often look at these systems when setting rates for EIFS homes. Poor waterproofing can make getting home insurance harder or more costly. The right moisture management system protects both your home’s structure and your wallet from future problems.

Ensuring compliance with current building codes

Building codes change over time, and older EIFS homes may not meet today’s standards. Local rules now require water barriers and drainage systems that many older EIFS homes lack. Getting your EIFS home up to code means fixing these issues before they cause bigger problems.

A certified inspector can spot code violations that need fixing.

Updating your EIFS to meet current codes costs money but saves you from future headaches. Water damage from non-compliant EIFS can lead to rot, mold, and high repair bills. Some insurance companies won’t cover homes with outdated EIFS systems.

Making these upgrades protects your investment and gives you peace of mind about your home’s safety.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your EIFS Instead of Repairing It

Cracks wider than 1/16 inch in your EIFS signal major problems that need more than simple repairs. Large cracks often point to substrate failure or water damage behind the surface.

You might also notice bulging areas, soft spots when pressed, or stains that keep coming back after cleaning. These issues mean moisture has likely damaged the wood framing inside your walls.

Homes with older standard EIFS built before drainage systems became common face higher risks. If your moisture testing shows readings above 20% in multiple areas, replacement is smarter than patching.

Many insurance policies limit coverage for EIFS problems, making complete replacement the best long-term fix. The cost might seem high now, but fixing hidden rot and mold will cost much more later.

Next, let’s explore alternatives to older EIFS systems that offer better protection.

Alternatives to Older Standard EIFS

Modern EIFS systems with drainage planes offer better moisture control than older versions. You can also switch to fiber cement, brick, or natural stone for a more reliable exterior finish.

Updated EIFS systems with drainage planes

Newer EIFS systems fix the big problems found in older versions. These updated systems include special drainage planes that allow water to escape instead of getting trapped in walls.

The drainage plane works like a path for moisture to flow out through small channels or gaps built into the system. This simple change helps protect your home from mold, rot, and costly structural damage that plagued many houses with older EIFS.

Most modern drainage EIFS has a water-resistant barrier behind the foam insulation. This barrier stops moisture from reaching the wood frame if water gets past the outer layer. Many home builders now prefer these drainage systems because they cut down on risks while keeping the good parts of EIFS – like energy savings and nice looks.

If you’re buying a home with EIFS, ask if it has this drainage feature. Homes without it might need expensive upgrades to prevent future water damage.

Switching to traditional stucco or other cladding systems

Many homeowners swap old EIFS for traditional stucco to avoid water damage risks. Traditional stucco costs less in the long run because it needs fewer repairs. This type of siding lets walls breathe better, which stops mold growth.

Fiber cement, vinyl, and brick are other good options that last longer than older EIFS. These choices may boost your home’s value and make it easier to sell later.

If you’re tired of EIFS problems, talk to a pro about making the switch. The change might cost more up front but save money over time. Your insurance rates could go down too, since many companies charge more for homes with older EIFS.

A good contractor can remove the old system without harming your home’s frame. They’ll fix any hidden damage before putting on the new siding.

Conclusion

Older EIFS homes need careful review before you buy. A good inspector can find hidden water damage that might cost thousands to fix. Your dream home could turn into a money pit if moisture has seeped behind the walls.

Smart buyers get special EIFS checks and plan for possible repairs in their budget. You must weigh the risks against the home’s price and decide if an EIFS house is right for you.

FAQs

What are the main problems with older EIFS homes?

Older EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finishing System) homes often have water penetration issues due to improper installation. This trapped moisture can cause wood rot, mold, and structural damage behind the walls. Homes with EIFS built before 1995 typically lack a water drainage system, making them more prone to serious deterioration.

Will I have trouble getting homeowners insurance for a house with EIFS?

Many insurance companies have strict EIFS policies or charge higher rates for properties with EIFS cladding. Some insurers may even refuse coverage due to the high replacement cost and potential problems associated with older EIFS systems. Always check with several insurance providers before you buy a house with this type of stucco.

How can I tell if EIFS was properly installed?

Look for settlement cracks, bubbling, or staining on exterior walls. Professional stucco inspectors can check vapor permeability and look behind the EIFS layers for moisture issues. Properly installed EIFS includes a vapor barrier and correct adhesive application at all joints.

Can EIFS problems be fixed or should I avoid buying?

Minor EIFS issues can be repaired, but extensive water damage might require complete removal and replacement of the system. The cost to fix improper installation can range from a few thousand dollars to over $100,000 for whole-house EIFS replacement. Get estimates before purchasing.

Are there benefits to EIFS compared to traditional stucco?

Yes! EIFS offers better thermal performance and insulation than traditional stucco and creates an energy-efficient envelope around your home. It also provides excellent aesthetic appeal with various design options. When properly installed, modern EIFS includes drainage planes that help prevent moisture problems.

Will termite inspections be harder with EIFS homes?

Termite inspection is more challenging in EIFS homes because the system often extends below ground level, hiding potential entry points. This makes early detection difficult and creates humidity issues that can attract pests. Ask for specialized termite inspections that use moisture meters and thermal imaging.