There is often confusion amoung home inspectors as to the difference between termite damage and water rot. The two are mutually exclusive.

Water can settle around a stoop leading into a home . Any settled concrete pad can provide an avenue for water to enter. Often the pad will settle slightly towards the home and water will soak into the framing.  During an inspection in Middletown NJ recently  I discovered extensive water rot conditions to the front entry of a single family home.

Water rot conditions are characterized by soft and spongy wood that is still in place. Cubicle rot is another condition caused by a fungus.

Termites remove the wood / cellulose and leave channels filled with mud to protect them from the air and light. Termites also avoid wet conditions.

Pinnacle Home Inspections 800-989-3872  www.pinnaclehomeinspections.com