Termites cost property owners around $5 billion of damage every year. For that reason, it's not a surprise that most home and business owners want to avoid an infestation as much as possible. Thankfully, prevention is sometimes as easy as identifying attractants and rectifying the situation. Follow this pest control guide to protect your structure. 

3 Situations That Attract Termites

1. Keeping Wood Near Your Home

Termites eat dead or dying wood, so naturally, the presence of it is a sure-fire way tempt them near your property. Wood piles and mulch are two of the most common attractants, so avoid keeping piles near your home and make sure mulch rests at least one inch below the siding. Trim shrubs and trees to keep them from touching the cladding or roofing. 

2. Standing Water Around Foundation

Subterranean termites rely on moisture to avoid dehydrating and drying out, which results in death. For that reason, they tend to hang out in wet soil or within structures where regular water access is present.

To practice effective preventative pest control, provide proper drainage for gutter systems and downspouts around your home, ensuring that water is moved as far away from the foundation as possible. Additionally, fix all plumbing and roofing leaks immediately. 

3. Exterior Structural Openings

Termites can't overrun your property if they don't have access to it. The small pests commonly enter through small cracks or openings around the foundation or siding. As such, regularly inspect the exterior of your home or business for signs of damage and make repairs as soon as possible. The insects can also fit around doors and windows, so check weatherstripping on a routine basis. 

 

Suspect a pest infestation? Take back control of your home with the help of Hi-Tech Pest Pros in Houston, TX. For over 30 years, the locally-owned company has provided comprehensive pest control services to residents and businesses across Fort Bend, Harris, and Montgomery counties. Learn more about their services online and request a free termite treatment quote at (281) 335-5725.