Steps You Can Take At Home To Avoid Termites
Termites are really bothersome, destructive pests. If you know you have them in your home, it is best to call a pest control company and let them handle the extermination so you can be sure it's done correctly and effectively. On the other hand, if you have not noticed any signs of termites and are primarily interested in a preventative approach, there are a few things you can do on your own to keep termites away. Here are the key steps to take in and around your home.
Don't Store Wood on the Ground
Do you have a pile of wood for your fireplace or even to have campfires? Be careful how you store that wood. Once it gets wet and starts rotting, it can become a hotbed for termites, which can then easily move into your home, fence, and other wood structures. Store firewood off the ground when possible. Invest in a metal rack, or at the very least, stack it on a tarp. Also store your firewood as far as possible from your home so that if it does attract termites, they're further from your home.
Keep Your Gutters Flowing
Gutters are meant to direct water away from your home's foundation. In doing so, they help keep your home's wooden structures from rotting and becoming more attractive to termites. But gutters can only do their job if they are clear. Make sure you are cleaning them regularly — more often if they're shaded by a tree. Also make sure your downspouts are long enough to deposit the water far from the foundation. Purchase and install downspout extenders, if needed.
Run a Dehumidifier
Set up a dehumidifier in your basement and/or crawlspace. This will help keep these areas dry, which makes them less appealing to termites. There are dehumidifiers you can set up to empty directly into a floor drain or laundry sink, which means you won't have to go through the hassle of emptying a condensate bucket every day.
Don't Use Wood Mulch
Avoid using wood mulch in your garden beds as it may attract termites as it begins breaking down. Instead, opt for pine needle mulch, stones, or even shredded rubber.
With the steps above, you should be able to keep termites away from your property. Contact a pest control company if you do see any evidence of termites. They can cause destruction rapidly, so you need to be even faster. Reach out to a local termite control service to learn more.