Simple Termite Control Tips for Homeowners
As homeowners, our homes are an investment of a lifetime. Unfortunately, the value of our homes can be quickly and quietly destroyed by termites. Termite prevention and control is an elaborate process that starts with understanding termites, their food habits, and the signs of an infestation. It is important to remember that we often end up doing things to attract termites unknowingly. Avoiding all such activities is critical to effective termite control and keeping our homes safe.
Things that Attract Termites:
First of all, please be mindful of the fact that termite colonies are generally created near food sources. Soft and slightly decayed wood is the most preferred food for termites, and therefore, they look for moist places with an adequate supply of wood. If wood is not properly maintained or treated, homes and surrounding areas can provide the ideal environment for the formation of termite colonies.
As a homeowner, you are likely to encounter different types of termites. Subterranean termites build colonies under the ground and move from one place to another through underground tunnels created specifically for this purpose. Often times, subterranean termite nests are huge in size and may span several building properties. Dampwood termites are found to build colonies mostly in areas such as sheds, crawlspaces, cellars, and other outdoor wooden structures. Drywood termites don’t require a lot of moisture to survive, and can be seen throughout a home and even in places like garage and attics. The biggest concern is subterranean termites.
Control Measures:
Mentioned below are a few things you can do to help manage and prevent termite infestation at your home.
- Termites are drawn closer to homes by firewood and woodpiles. Once they are in the woodpile, migration to the housing structure is just a matter of time. In order to avoid invasion, avoid stacking wood within 5 m (20 feet) of your home and keep them at least 50 mm above the ground.
- As they decay, dead stumps and trees attract termites. This can be an easy route for termites to make their way into your house. Therefore, clear dead tree and stumps from your yard regularly to prevent termite invasion.
- Termites can also be attracted to homes by leaves and tree limbs touching the roof. This migration can be restricted by regular trimming of trees.
- Just like tree limbs, mulch is also responsible for attracting termites to a home. The likelihood of termite infestation caused by mulch can be lowered by keeping them at a minimum distance of 15 centimetres from the building foundation.
- As a result of twig and leaf build-up in the gutters, the roof structure may get softened by the extra moisture. Termites often penetrate homes through these soft spots. This infestation route can be eliminated by cleaning the gutters regularly.
Signs of Infestation:
It is possible to anticipate the presence of termites in your home by identifying certain signals. Even if no termites are visible, these signals clearly indicate their presence. Therefore, if you notice any of these, consult a professional without any delay whatsoever.
- Mud tubes: These tubes are built by termites to commute between their colony and food sources.
- Wings: Wings are shed by termite swarmers immediately after finding a mate. If your house has termites, you may find piles of wings in your windows or on the porch.
- Structural Damage: In advanced stages of infestation, you may observe signals such as damaged wood.
- Frass: Frass may be referred to as the brown droppings left behind by termites. They sometimes look like sawdust or wood particles.
Once you are convinced about termite infestation, you must contact a termite treatment specialist right away. At Exterra, we offer environmentally responsible protection for your home against termite attacks. Please contact us today for more details.
