Is Your Home In Close Proximity To Known Termite Infestations? 3 Proactive Tips For Homeowners
Posted on: 12 May 2022
If you are a homeowner, news of an active termite infestation issue anywhere in your neighborhood is sure to be frightening. Across the nation, termite damage is a common problem that can result in significant damage to any structure built with lumber or wood-based building materials, like plywood and engineered wooden beams or floor joists.
Since many of these materials are located at or below ground level, termites are able to easily infiltrate and consume them. As the infestation worsens and the termite colony grows, areas of the structure can become weakened and result in serious damage to the structure. Homeowners who have recently learned of a nearby infestation can help to prevent this type of damage to their home by taking the following proactive steps to keep their home safe from termite activity.
Remove attractive food sources
Termites who are scouting for a new location to house their growing colony will most often select a site where there is a readily available food supply. Many homeowners may not realize that some common practices can actually invite termite activity, including:
- stacking firewood near the home or garage
- allowing leaves, sticks and twigs to accumulate near a structure
- storing lumber, sawdust or other wood products outdoors
Additionally, the use of some types of mulch can also act as an invitation to termites and allow them to begin an infestation of your home.
Cure moisture issues
Termites also require a humid environment to give them adequate moisture to support the needs of their colony and allow them to reproduce successfully. Leaking hose bibs, small plumbing leaks and inadequate ventilation are common causes of higher than normal humidity that can create an attractive environment for termites to exploit.
In addition to locating and curing plumbing and ventilation issues capable of raising humidity levels in the home, homeowners should also determine whether they have any moisture issues around the exterior of the home related to erosion or guttering issues that need to be addressed.
Schedule professional pest control
The most proactive tip for homeowners who want to avoid a termite infestation in their home is to immediately schedule a professional pest control visit as soon as they learn that termites have been found in their neighborhood. In addition to doing a thorough inspection to determine if there is any termite activity already present, the pest control professional can help the homeowner devise and implement a proactive termite control agenda, often including methods such as pre-treatment or the placement of bait stations. Look into termite control for more information.
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