General Termite Preventive Tips

• Maintain proper drainage around your property. Excessive moisture in and around the home can cause water damaged to wood, attract termites and lead to mold problems. It is important to make sure you’re not neglecting moisture control.

- Repair leaking faucets, water pipes and interior & exterior AC units.

- Repair decayed fascia & soffits and rotted roof shingles.

- Protection against wood decay and termites requires A/C discharge/drip lines and all gutter   downspouts to terminate at least 12" from foundation.

- Divert water away from the house through properly functioning downspouts, gutters, splash blocks   and irrigation heads.

• Termites will be attracted to decaying mulch. Where applicable, remove mulch at least annually and replace it with new mulch.

• Trim trees overhanging the roof to prevent a bridge that could allow termites and other pest, including critters from getting access into the house through the roof.

• Keep trees, shrubs, and vines trimmed at least 18 inches away from building walls, both to prevent a bridge for termites or other insects from entering the home and to avoid algae and mold growth on building surfaces.

• Shrubs & Tree roots should be removed. When these are cut down, the decaying root system will attract termites.

• Cellulose debris such as, fence posts, wooden sheds, decks, play sets, firewood piles, and other wood sources
  are conducive to attracting termites. Where possible, keep all cellulose debris at least 15 to 20 feet from the
  home and off the ground.

• Eliminate wood in contact with the ground. Termite problems often occur when wood components of the building are in direct contact with soil.

• Monitor all exterior areas of wood, including windows, doorframes and skirting boards for any noticeable changes.

• Consider scheduling a professional inspection annually. Termites have the ability to chew through wood, flooring and even wallpaper undetected, 24/7, and can compromise the structural stability of a home. Wood- boring insect damage is generally not covered by homeowners’ insurance policies.

Termites cannot be controlled with do-it-yourself measures. 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.