The Trouble with Termites

termiteWhether you are a new home owner, a potential seller or have been living in your home for a long time, termites do not play favorites. Ideal conditions that allow them to take up residence in your home include a good deal of moisture, usually near the ground and close to your foundation, plants growing up against the house and cracks in the foundation.

Subterranean termites live underground, build large nests with mud tubes through which they travel and stay connected to the moisture. Besides burrowing in, they can also fly in through cracks in the foundation or windows. They love to eat wood and thrive in warm humid spaces. If left unchecked, they can create severe damage in your home.

 While it is often hard for a home owner to spot, some tell tale signs are the following: if you see them swarming near your home in the spring during mating season; Other signs can include evidence of the mud tubes, piles of sawdust coming off of wood, exit holes in drywall, soft baseboards or window moldings, wall paper bubbling, and tiles falling off of walls.

 If you see evidence of these items, call your local pest control to come and investigate, and have them do a treatment as required.

 To keep your home termite free, here are some anti termite treatments:

  • Keep your home dry, repair leaky faucets, properly vent bathrooms, kitchens and basements where moisture can build up
  • .Keep bushes and plants trimmed back at least 8” from your foundation. Make sure window wells do not have sitting water in them.
  • Fill any cracks in the foundation, along window frames, dryer vents, or any other potential entry points.
  • Get a yearly termite inspection from a certified pest control company, even if you think you do not live in an area that is known for termite infestation.

When you stay on top of basic home maintenance, you should stay termite free.

What’s the craziest termite home invasion you’ve ever heard about?

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