Termite control consists of two essential steps – preventing termites and treating current infestations. There are a lot of different ways that you can protect your home so let’s start by reviewing some of the best termite prevention methods.
Start by scheduling annual termite inspections from a professional exterminator so that you can spot infestations early and get them treated before costing you thousands in damage. Professionals will also work with you to address certain conditions that might be causing you problems. For instance, excess moisture can be a conduit for termite activity so you should address it immediately.
You will also need to come up with a plan of action for preventative treatment and monitoring for termites. Again, a professional will come up with a plan of action for you.
Remove Access to your Home
Proper termite prevention is going to be based on keeping these pests away from your home. Make it as difficult as possible for them to make a colony. Seal gaps around utility lines going into your home since termites can use these to explore for food sources. You should also try to remove any wood-to-ground contact points possible in order to deny termites access into your home. If you cannot remove wood contacts, then you should apply termiticide to it so that termites will stay away.
Reduce the Number of Food Sources
Throw away materials that contain cellulose that might be lying in crawlspaces or other areas of your home. You should also replace all mulch used in your yard with non-cellulose options. At the very least, move this mulch at least one foot away from the foundation of your home.
Wooden siding should also be no less than six inches from the ground. The idea is to keep termites from being able to spot potential wood sources.
Reduce Moisture
Make sure that there are no areas where water can puddle around the foundation of your home. Address these problems immediately since they can attract termites. Basements and crawlspaces are also magnets for moisture so you need to make sure that you inspect and address potential problems as soon as possible.
Repair leaky pipes as quickly as possible so that you are not allowing a buildup of moisture.
Monitor for Termite Activity
Inspect all lumber before you use it for home projects. Make sure that it does not show any signs of termite activity.
You should also consult your pest control expert to determine other prevention techniques. They can help you install monitoring stations and can even treat potential hot spots before termites have a chance to find them. Monitoring stations are an essential aspect of termite control. They help protect you from potential infestations.
Final Thoughts
Termites can quickly cost you thousands in damage so it’s important that you seek professional help at the first sign of an infestation. If you catch them early enough, you can keep them from causing too much damage. However, if you ignore the problem then you will have serious issues in the future.
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