Ways You Attract Termites to Your Home

Regardless of whatever material your home is made out of, each and all of them are attractive to a termite’s palate, as these structure-destroying critters seek out cellulose – nature’s most copious organic compound, which is present in all buildings. Unfortunately, getting rid of these pests is not something you can do yourself and in fact, cost Americans more than $5 billion in home and property damage each year. The best way to keep termites from wreaking havoc is to discourage them from encroaching onto your home in the first place by following these tips:

• KEEPING A WOODPILE CLOSE TO HOME: It’s typical to keep firewood close to home (or even stacked up against your walls) for easy access – but this convenience creates a high risk of infestation. If you can, try to keep firewood and woodpiles at least 20 feet away from the house and keep it raised off of the ground – such as with specialized racks, bricks or concrete platforms.
• CLOGGED GUTTERS: Since termites prefer moisture, improperly drained rain gutters -which causes liquid to collect and make insulation easy to break through – also serve as an attractant and point of entry for these cellulose-loving pests. Be sure to keep the troughs free of debris such as leaves, branches and standing water.
• USING TOO MUCH MULCH: Mulch is great for inhibiting weed growth and helping soils retain water – but these moisture-loving wood chips also provide the perfect habit for termites to thrive. Be cautious about applying too much mulch around your foundation (keeping it at least 6 inches away from your home’s foundation and never contact siding) and replace it every 2 to 3 years. Also, keeping a ground-cover fabric barrier between the soil and mulch will also reduce the chances of termite activity.
• TREES AND STUMPS: Trees that hover above your home and come into contact with your roof and walls provide another point of entry for termites; the excessive shade can also slow precipitation and encourage moisture build-up. Also, rotting tree stumps and dead trees – which can collect liquids, promote the growth of fungi and can even have roots that extend towards your home’s foundation – can provide another termite haven.

If you’re concerned about a potential termite infestation, contact Accurate Termite Control today for inspection and treatment.