# Termites Under the Deck of an Apache Junction Manufactured Home

- Link: https://propertyinspectionsplus.com/apache-junction-manufactured-home-termites-deck/
- Published: 2026-10-25T02:24:11+00:00
- Author: homeinspectordan

This 1987 manufactured home in Apache Junction was a cool property, with a big insulated
workshop garage, several sheds and a covered front deck. The real story was under
that deck, where I found termite tubes everywhere.

## Termite damage under the front deck

The deck was carpeted on top, so nothing showed from above. In the crawl space underneath,
termite tubes were coming straight up out of the expansion joints in the concrete
and climbing to the water-stained wood. Many boards had already been sistered because
of termite damage, and some of the sistered boards were damaged too. Some tubes 
were hanging in mid-air from the framing.

I did not see live termites that day. Old infestations like this are often inactive
because they were found and treated before. But the deck framing needs repairs, 
and anyone buying should ask about past treatment and get the paperwork. Wood framing
needs about 18 inches of clearance from the soil so termites cannot reach it easily.

## Drainage between the buildings

Gutters and roof runoff from two buildings all collected in a narrow strip between
them. There was an underground drain, but concrete had blocked it off, and another
drain sat above grade. That water was soaking into the wood near the deck, right
where the termite tubes were. One of the sheds also had severe termite damage at
its floor.

## Plumbing

 * The old gray polybutylene supply lines had been replaced with PEX, but cut pieces
   were left behind, and some galvanized fittings were left at the shower valves.
   That caused low flow and rust at the hot side.
 * The primary bathroom sink and tub drained very slowly.
 * Unsupported PEX and stressed SharkBite fittings at the water heater.
 * A galvanized fitting on the water heater TPR line, which should have a clean,
   rigid discharge.

## Other findings

 * **The dryer vent exhausted straight into the crawl space**, leaving lint all 
   over underneath.
 * Exposed wiring and splices to the landscape lights out front.
 * Outlets near the panel and laundry without GFCI protection.
 * A garage door that would not close and kept reversing.
 * An aging heat pump and an air handler that needed cleaning.

## Is it a deal breaker?

Not necessarily. The termite damage was in the deck, not the house itself. It still
needs repairs so nobody falls through, plus an electrician for the loose ends. Termites
in Arizona are slow, so finding damage early gives you time to deal with it. That
is why I always get into the crawl space.

## Termite inspections in Gilbert and across Arizona

Property Inspections Plus is based in Gilbert, and we inspect homes and manufactured
homes all over [Apache Junction](https://propertyinspectionsplus.com/home-inspector-apache-junction-az/),
[Gold Canyon](https://propertyinspectionsplus.com/home-inspector-gold-canyon-az/)
and the East Valley. Every home inspection includes a [termite (WDO) inspection](https://propertyinspectionsplus.com/termite-inspection/)
at no extra charge, done by Dan Pierce, a Certified Master Inspector and licensed
Arizona termite inspector. If no active termites are found, your inspection also
comes with a 1-year termite warranty backed by our partners at [Firehouse Pest Control in Gilbert](https://firehousepest.com/services/termite-treatment/).

Want to learn the warning signs yourself? Start with [how to spot termites in your Arizona home](https://propertyinspectionsplus.com/how-to-spot-termites-arizona-home/),
or browse more [termite posts](https://propertyinspectionsplus.com/category/termites/).

**Buying a home?** [Book your inspection online](https://app.spectora.com/home-inspectors/my-inspection-company-f8d6dbae4e/schedule)
or call [623-399-0079](https://propertyinspectionsplus.com/apache-junction-manufactured-home-termites-deck/6233990079).