Stopping Termite Problems Before They Start

Home pest control is a problem plaguing many Americans. Termite pest control in particular is a huge industry, as native species cost Americans an estimated $2 billion each year in extermination services. Whether you see them or not, termites are everywhere. Taken together, all the termites in the wold significantly outweigh all the humans in the world, and have accomplished that feat on a diet of the things we hate to replace: wood, wallpaper, plastics, and fabrics made from plants. They dig tunnels, burrow in buildings, and ultimately pose a major danger to those structures they inhabit.

The best termite and pest control services can help you eradicate termites that have already made an appearance in your home. Preventing them from showing up in the first place, however, is up to you. Here are a few suggestions for protecting your home from termites and avoiding the need to call pest control services in the first place.

Get Rid of Moisture Problems

It’s a good idea to do anyway, but the fact that it can keep out termites is a major bonus. Be sure to:

• Repair leaky faucets, water pipes, and air conditioning units.
• Divert water from your home’s foundation.
• Keep gutters and downspouts clean.
• Get rid of excessive plant cover and wood mulch.
• Eliminate standing water from the roof.
• Keep all your vents open and clear.
• Seal any entry points around water and utility lines or pipes.

Starve Them Out

If there isn’t much for them to eat, termites are less likely to make their home in your home. Remove these food sources, if possible:

• Move firewood, lumber, and paper away from the foundation or crawl space.
• Get rid of any stumps or debris near your house.
• Install screens on outside vents.
• Check decks and wooden fences for damage.
• Don’t let wood on your home come in contact with the soil.

Not Sure If You Have a Problem?

You might need to cal pest control if you notice any of these things:

• A temporary swarm of winged insects in your home from the soil around your house.
• Any cracked or bubbling paint or termite droppings (frass).
• Hollow sounding wood.
• Mud tubes on outside walls, wooden beams, or in crawl spaces.
• Discarded wings from swarmers.

Termite damage is nothing to mess around with, so if your prevention efforts aren’t working, don’t hesitate to call a pest control professional. They’ll help you get rid of your problem and guard against future infestation. See this reference for more: htppest.net