• Termite Infestation: Preventive Tips

    October 7, 2020 | rhburr
  • Finding Termites in your home can be worst than your worst nightmare. Subterranean termites eat 24/7, making them the most destructive species of termite found in the U.S. Factoid: According to the National Pest Management Association, Termites alone cause over $5 billion in property damage annually, a cost not covered by homeowners insurance.
    Here are a few Preventive Tips You can follow to help keep termites out of your home!
     
    Maintain proper drainage around your property, as moist soil will attract termites.
     
    • A/C Drip Line: The A/C drip line/discharge is normally located by you outside air condition unit. It should be extended at least 18 inches away from the foundation to aid in minimizing moisture at the foundation which is conducive to attracting termite.
    • Gutter Extension: Gutter/Downspout discharge should be extended at least 18 inches away from the foundation to aid in minimizing moisture at the foundation which is conducive to attracting termites. You should also make sure your gutters are clean and operating properly on a regular basis.
    • Repair: Leaking faucets, water pipes, and exterior AC or Pool Equipment units that are leaking.
    Shrub & Tree Stumps:
    • When these plants are removed, the decaying root system will attract termites, therefore they should be removed for your property.
    Overhanging Trees:
    • Trim overhanging branches and/or branches that are touching the roof to prevent a bridge that could allow termites and other pest access into the house through the roof.
    Plants Abutting:
    • Trim all plantings abutting the structure at least 18 inches from structure to prevent a bridge for termites & other pest from gaining access to your home.
    Cellulose Debris:
    Store fuel wood, scrap wood and building materials at least 20-25 feet away from the house and off the ground to help prevent attracting termites to your home:
    • Keep wood structures, fence posts, wooden sheds, decks, play sets and other wood sources at least 10 to 15 feet from the home.
    • Termites will be attracted decaying mulch, if possible remove mulch annually and replace it with new mulch.
    • All wood-to-soil contact must be eliminated
    Crawl Space and Attic:
    • Ventilation in crawlspaces and in the Attic is critical to prevent “dead air” spaces. Adequate cross ventilation will minimize “dead air” spaces. Avoid any obstructions of the vents by vegetation, storage or physically sealing off openings.
    • In crawlspaces with continuously moist soil a vapor barrier can be installed to minimize condensation onto framing components. Vapor barriers are designed to maintain the moisture at the soil level.
    Annual Inspections:
    • Periodic inspection should be part of a routine maintenance schedule. An annual inspection for termites is a must. Termites work 24 hours per day and never sleep. And you thought your work day was long! Termites do their damage behind closed walls and may cause damage for several years before you discover them when remodeling or when they swarm in the spring or fall.
    Call us today at (321) 285-2967 to schedule a Wood Destroying Organism inspection. A trained company representative will inspect your house for signs of infestation and potential problem areas.

     

     
     

  • To Schedule Your Inspection - Call (407) 300-5330