Termite Prevention Tips

How do you prevent termites from damaging your home? We are sharing Termite Prevention Tips with you. So often you don’t know that you have termites. Still, there are various things you can do to inhibit the threat.

Experts estimate it generally takes 3 to 8 years for termites to cause considerable damage although some of the more destructive termite types can cause major structural damage in as little as a few months.

After the long cold winter experienced across much of the country spring can’t come soon enough for many people. Before we know it daylight will last longer flowers will start blooming and children will be spending more time playing outdoors. But,as the weather continues to warm,people may also start to see an unwelcome sign that spring has sprung the presence of warmers or flying termites.

Spring is prime termite season as warmers emerge to mate and establish new colonies which often include vulnerable residential properties. Termites can literally eat a home out from under its owners often without them even knowing until much damage has been done. They have the ability to chew through wood flooring and even wallpaper undetected 24/7, and can compromise the structural stability of a home within several years depending on the species.

Luckily there are many steps homeowners can take to help prevent termites from infesting their property. Here are 10 tips for protect your greatest investment from termites.

• Eliminate or reduce moisture in and around the home, which termites need to thrive.
• Repair leaking faucets, water pipes and exterior AC units.
• Repair fascia, officiants and rotted roof shingles.
• Replace weather stripping and loose mortar around basement foundation and windows.
• Divert water away from the house through properly functioning downspouts, gutters and splash blocks.
• Routinely inspect the foundation of a home for signs of mud tubes (used by termites to reach a food source) uneven or bubbling paint and wood that sounds hollow when tapped.
• Monitor all exterior areas of wood including windows doorframes and skirting boards for any noticeable changes.
• Maintain an 18 inch gap between soil and any wood portions of your home.
• Consider scheduling a professional inspection annually. Wood boring insect damage is not covered by homeowners’ insurance policies.
• Store firewood at least 20 feet away from the house.
• If you suspect a termite infestation, contact a licensed pest professional immediately to determine the extent of the problem and receive a recommendation of an appropriate course of treatment.

To find a local qualified pest professional visit the www.hafiservices.com