Maintenance Guides / Exterior & Structure

Inspect rim joist & sill plate

Difficulty: moderateTime: 30 mins

Why it matters

Rim joist is #1 site for termite ingress and water entry.

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How to do it

  • 1

    Descend into basement/crawlspace.

  • 2

    Locate rim joist at top of foundation.

  • 3

    Look for mud tubes, soft spots, small holes.

  • 4

    Press screwdriver into wood; soft = rot.

  • 5

    Check for water stains and gaps.

  • 6

    If damage suspected, call pest and structural pros.