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Termites are a serious problem for homeowners. They can cause billions of dollars in damage each year. But the good news is that there are a number of things you can do to prevent termites from infesting your home.
What are termites?
Termites are small, social insects that live in colonies. They feed on cellulose, which is the main component of wood. Termites can cause extensive damage to homes, businesses, and other structures made of wood.
How do termites get into homes?
Termites can enter homes through a variety of openings, including cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows and doors, and through wood that is in contact with the ground. Termites are also attracted to moisture, so any areas of your home that are damp or have leaks are at risk.
Signs of a termite infestation
There are a number of signs that may indicate a termite infestation in your home, including:
- Mud tubes: Termites build mud tubes to travel between their nest and their food source. Mud tubes are often found on the foundation of a home or on exterior walls.
- Winged termites: Winged termites are called swarmers. They are the reproductive form of the termite colony. Swarmers are often seen during the spring and summer months.
- Damaged wood: Termite-damaged wood may sound hollow when tapped or may have visible holes or tunnels.
- Frass: Frass is the term for termite droppings. It is often found in piles near termite colonies or in areas where termites have been feeding.
Termite prevention tips
There are a number of things you can do to prevent termites from infesting your home, including:
- Eliminate moisture: Termites are attracted to moisture, so it is important to eliminate any sources of moisture around your home. This includes fixing leaky faucets and pipes, repairing gutters and downspouts, and grading the soil around your foundation so that water drains away from your home.
- Remove wood-to-soil contact: Termites can easily enter your home through wood that is in contact with the ground. To prevent this, make sure that all wood is at least 18 inches off the ground. This includes wood siding, decks, and fences.
- Seal cracks and gaps: Termites can enter your home through even the smallest cracks and gaps. Seal all cracks in the foundation, around windows and doors, and in other exterior walls.
- Inspect your home regularly: Inspect your home regularly for signs of termite infestation. This includes checking the foundation, exterior walls, and any areas where wood is in contact with the ground.
Termite prevention treatment
If you find evidence of a termite infestation in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company immediately. Termite prevention treatment can involve a variety of methods, including:
- Termite baiting: Termite baiting is a common termite prevention treatment. Bait stations are placed around the perimeter of your home and are filled with a slow-acting poison. Termites are attracted to the bait and carry it back to their colony, where it kills the entire colony.
- Termite barrier: A termite barrier is a chemical barrier that is applied to the soil around your foundation. This barrier prevents termites from entering your home through the soil.
- Termite fumigation: Termite fumigation is a more drastic termite prevention treatment. It involves sealing your home and filling it with a gas that kills termites. Fumigation is typically only used in cases of severe termite infestation.
Termite prevention treatment cost
The cost of termite prevention treatment will vary depending on the size of your home, the severity of the infestation, and the type of treatment used. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars for termite prevention treatment.
Natural termite prevention
There are a number of natural termite prevention methods that you can use. These methods are often less expensive than traditional termite prevention treatments, but they may not be as effective. Some natural termite prevention methods include:
- Diatomaceous earth: Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder that kills termites by puncturing their exoskeletons. Diatomaceous earth can be applied to the soil around your foundation and to other areas where termites are likely to be found.
- Borax: Borax is a natural mineral that is also effective at killing termites. Borax can be mixed with water and sprayed around your home or mixed with sugar and placed in bait stations.
- Neem oil: Neem oil is a natural oil that repels termites. Neem oil can be sprayed around your home or mixed with water and used to treat wood.
Best way to prevent termites
The best way to prevent termites is to use a combination of methods. This includes eliminating moisture, removing wood-to-soil contact, sealing cracks and gaps, and inspecting your home regularly.
Termite prevention treatment options
There are a number of termite prevention treatment options available. The best treatment for your home will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your home, the severity of the infestation, and the type of termites that are present.
Some common termite prevention treatment options include:
- Termite baiting: Termite baiting is a popular termite prevention treatment. Bait stations are placed around the perimeter of your home and are filled with a slow-acting poison. Termites are attracted to the bait and carry it back to their colony, where it kills the entire colony.
- Termite barrier: A termite barrier is a chemical barrier that is applied to the soil around your foundation. This barrier prevents termites from entering your home through the soil.
- Termite fumigation: Termite fumigation is a more drastic termite prevention treatment. It involves sealing your home and filling it with a gas that kills termites. Fumigation is typically only used in cases of severe termite infestation.
How to choose a termite prevention company
When choosing a termite prevention company, it is important to do your research. Make sure that the company is licensed and insured, and that they have a good reputation. You should also get multiple estimates before choosing a company.
Conclusion
Termite prevention is important for protecting your home from damage. By following the tips above, you can reduce your risk of a termite infestation. If you do find evidence of a termite infestation, contact a professional pest control company immediately.
