Prevention Before Infestation
After the long, and bitter winter, spring can’t come quick enough for most people. And before we know it, daylight lasts longer, flowers start to bloom and children are seen more outside. However, as the weather continues to warm up, some people start to notice an unwelcome sign, such as flying termites. Which is when termite control should be implemented.
Spring is prime termite season as they start to emerge to mate, in addition to establishing new colonies. Termites will often eat a home out from under its owners, sometimes without them knowing it until it is too late. They will chew through the likes of wood, flooring and even wallpaper, and have been known to compromise the structural stability of a building within a few years all depending on the species. In point of fact, termites can cause $5 billion worth of property damage every year.
So in order to prevent this from happening to your home, you need to reduce the moisture in and around your home, as termites need this in order to thrive.
1. Repair and leaky faucets, water pipes and outside AC units.
2. Repair any damaged or rotted fascia, soffits, and roof shingles.
3. Replace old weather stripping and loose mortar around your basements foundations and windows.
4. Divert any free-standing water away from your house.
5. Regularly inspect your home’s foundations for any signs of mud tubes, or bubbling paint and wood which when tapped sounds hollow.
6. Closely monitor all exterior wood areas, this should also include windows, door frames and skirting boards.
7. Try to maintain an 18-inch gap between the soil and any wood areas on your home.
8. Think about scheduling a professional inspection every year, as wood-boring insect damage is usually not covered by an insurance policy.
9. Keep all firewood at least 20 feet away from your home.
Termites cannot be controlled using DIY measures, so should you suspect a termite infestation, you need to contact a licensed pest professional immediately in order to determine the extent of the infestation. For more information on termite control please call Dead On Termite Services in Santa Maria, CA now at (805) 863-4347.