Termites can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare because they burrow in and do a lot of damage to the home. Knowing precisely what attracts this worst pest into your home can help ensure proper measures are put in place in due time to avoid it. Following are the top-five things attracting termites, together with some tips for controlling them to keep them at bay:
What Attracts Termites to Your Property?
Trees & Foliage
Trees and foliage can be beautiful, but they also can be a portal for termites. The roots of trees may intrude into your home’s foundation and open an accessible entryway for termites to get into a structure without being noticed. To minimize this risk:
- Cut trees and bushes to keep growth away from the house.
- Take out all dead trees or stumps on or near your property.
Firewood or Storing Wood Too Close to the Home
Firewood against the house or in the garage is like an open invitation for termites. The pests thrive on cellulose found in wood. At this point, avoid this:
- Keep firewood at least 20 feet from your house.
- Raise the wood above the soil out of direct contact.
Crawlspaces and Basements
Crawlspaces and basements are typically humid and dark and experience little everyday activity—all ideal termite living environments. They will quickly infest through numerous cracks and crevices in these spaces. To discourage them from doing so:
- Provide adequate ventilation in crawlspaces and basements.
- Use vapor barriers to lower moisture levels.
- Inspect these areas regularly for signs of termite activity.
Cracks in Foundation and Missing Mortar
Termites can take advantage of a crack as small as a fissure in your foundation or a gap in your brickwork to make their way into your home. The following are some of the ways to protect against this:
- Regular checks of the entire foundation and all around the exterior walls are done.
- Act to seal gaps and holes immediately with proper materials.
- Consider seeking professional foundation repair if needed.
Constant Moisture
Termites are attracted to moisture, which is a requisite for survival. Other sources of moisture in your house include pipe leaks, poorly drained areas, and low humidity. The following are some of the ways that will keep the moisture levels down:
- Fix any leaking plumbing immediately.
- Have your gutters and downspouts cleaned, directing water away from your foundation.
- Run dehumidifiers in damp places, like basements and crawlspaces.
Additional Tips for Termite Prevention
Preventing termites requires a proactive approach. Here are some extra termite control tips:
- Have routine inspections made by pest control services.
- Use termite-resistant building materials where possible.
- Put up termite barriers at the time of new building or renovation.
Conclusion
It will help ensure that your home is safe and structural by assuring termite control. Knowing the behavior of termites can be instrumental in saving property from these very damaging pests. Professionals need to be contacted for complete and thorough inspections with effective treatment.
With Fullscope Pest Control, we’re ready to provide comprehensive termite control and prevention services. Our advanced Sentricon System offers an ideal solution for eliminating and preventing termite infestations. Backed by our expert team and leading technology, your home will be secure—free from termites.
