How to Prevent Termites In Your Home

Termites are a year-round pest in Florida. With the warmth, humidity, subtropical climate, Florida is an ideal environment for them to thrive. This makes treating and preventing termites a necessity all year long, as these tiny creatures are responsible for billions of dollars in home damages annually.

If you have any questions about termite prevention or treatment, do not hesitate to contact Total Pest Solutions.

Types of Termites

There are two types of termites that are common in Florida: Drywood and Subterranean. Both types of termites are constantly on the hunt for water and cellulose. Cellulose is one of the most prevalent substances on Earth, and it is found in abundance in the wood around your home.

Drywood Termites are especially common in spring and summer. They do not have eyes, but they are perfectly adapted to find wood and water in spite of this.

Ways Drywood Termites Access Your Home

• Cracks in trim
• Exposed beams
• Improperly sealed vents
• Window Frames

Signs Of Drywood Termite Infestation

• Broken termite wings near windows
• Exterior paint blistering
• Damaged wood
• Small pellets on windowsill and sliding door tracks

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean Termites are very similar to their Drywood cousins in that they seek out their food sources blindly. However, Subterranean Termites generally come up from underground, as their name implies. They primarily live off of soil, but during swarming season in Spring, they also seek out the wood around your home. Crawl spaces are especially vulnerable as this provides both soil and wood in a less visible area where they may go unnoticed for a very long time.

Ways Subterranean Termites Access Your Home

• Areas where earth and wood are in direct contact
• Cracks in the foundation
• Leaky pipes
• Areas of improper water runoff

Signs of Subterranean Termite Infestation

• Mud tubes
• Wood damage
• Broken termite wings near windows

Prevention

When it comes to termites, prevention is key. Treating after they have already infested generally leads to very expensive repairs, as the damage is often worse than it may appear from the outside. Some ways to prevent termites from entering your home include:

1. Prevent Water Accumulation

Fix leaky pipes as soon as possible. If you notice water pooling after a rain, you may need to have someone check the grade, or slope, of your yard to make sure that water can run freely out. Ensure that your rain gutters are clear and allowing water to pass through unobstructed as well.

2. Keep Wooden Structures An Inch Or More Above Soil Level

This includes your door frames, windowsills, and siding.

3. Keep Plants From Touching The House

When planting make sure to leave enough room between the plant and the side of the house. If your shrubs are touching the side of the house, be sure to trim it back, leaving at least a one-inch gap.

4. Fill Cracks & Maintain Seals

Periodically check your foundation for cracking and fill them as soon as possible. Also, check all pipes, vents, and wiring around the house to be sure they are all properly sealed.