Termites are one of the most destructive household pests in the world, chewing through wood and paper at an alarming rate. To protect your home, your best option is to prevent an infestation before it even happens. Take a look at some of the best termite prevention tips below to keep your home pest-free.

How to Prevent Termites

1. Create a Gap Around Your Home

Termites burrow and travel through dirt to reach your walls, so if possible, place a barrier in their way. Identify any wood areas of your home, such as siding or trim, and make sure there is at least an 18-inch gap between them and any dirt. Gravel and landscaping fabric can be used to make a barrier.

2. Deprive Them of Water

Termites don’t just need wood to live; they also need a reliable supply of water. The drier you can keep the area around your home, the harder it is for them to establish a colony. Direct runoff safely away from your home and promptly repair any leaking hoses or pipes.

3. Be Careful What You Store

If you have wood leaning against the walls of your home, it can form a bridge for termites. Make sure any firewood or lumber is stored away from the home, and if you want to decorate with trellises, use metal or vinyl options instead of wood.

4. Use Baits & Treatments

Your local exterminator can help you keep termites out of your home. Talk to them about long-lasting termite treatments or subterranean termite baits to poison these insects before they reach your walls.

5. Monitor Carefully

Take the time to walk around the outside of your home looking for leaks, wood hazards, or signs of termite activity such as mud tubes across exposed surfaces. The sooner you spot a problem, the more quickly you can respond to termite activity and the less damage they’ll do.

If you suspect you may have termites in your home, or if you’re simply concerned about prevention, call Denning Pest Control in Jefferson, MO. Serving Columbia and central Missouri, they provide reliable control and prevention for termites, bedbugs, and other insects and small animals. To schedule an inspection, contact them at (573) 442-4010 or online today.