Termites love wood, and your home is filled with it. If the conditions are ripe on your property, termites will form a colony and infest your home. The good news however, is that there are ways in which you can make your property less attractive to termites. In this article, we’re going to cover some of them.

1. Wood should not come into contact with the ground

Termites infest a home through the soil, where the earth and wood elements of the home come into contact with each other. When your home is set up in this way, termites are able to enter the wood directly, without the need for mud tubes. As such, it’s important to have at least a six inch ground clearance between wooden elements such as doors and the siding.

2. Prevent moisture from accumulating near the foundation

Moisture is another big draw for termites. They are likely to gain entry into your home through the area near the foundation that is most humid. Here, gutters, splash blocks and downspouts can be used to redirect water away from the foundation. Irrigation systems and sprinklers should also be used in a way that prevents water accumulation near the home.

3. Reduce the humidity and moisture in your crawl space

Similarly, moisture in crawlspaces is also very attractive to termites. Most building codes require a vent opening for every 150 square feet of crawlspace. If you have a moisture barrier, you will need one vent for every 300 to 500 square feet.

4. Make sure to store firewood properly

Like any other type of cellulose. firewood, newspapers, and cardboard boxes will attract termites. This is why they should be stored away from your home, or else they will serve as both a big draw to your property, and as a secret entryway into the home.

Do you suspect that you have a termite infestation?

By implementing these best practices, you reduce the odds of an infestation, but they are by no means foolproof. Termites have a way of finding their way into a property, and the best way to stay safe and avoid any damage to your home is to have regular inspections, especially if you live in an area that is prone to termite infestations. If you suspect that your home may be under attack by a termite colony, or if you’ve seen signs that an infestation might be present, contact us today.

Tags: Termite Control, Termite Exterminator, Termite Pest Control