Termites can cost you a lot of money and damage your most valuable asset, your home. Protect your home by taking the steps necessary to prevent termite damage. This is your best defense against termites.

What is a termite?

To understand the importance of termite pest control, you need to understand what a termite is and the damage it can cause. A termite is a small, pale to brownish black insect that feeds on wood. While there are 50 different kinds of termites, they can be grouped into three ecological groups: damp wood, dry wood and subterranean.

1Damp wood termites are commonly found in fallen logs in the forest. They are not commonly found in your home.

2Subterranean termites form large nests in the ground and venture out to attack wood using shelter tubes they create. The tubes are constructed from the soil, bits of chewed wood and excrements from termites.

3Dry wood termites attack wood that is found above the soil level.

Why is it important to prevent termite damage?

Termites eat cellulose, which is the basic building block of wood. It is important to prevent these pests from attacking your home, as they can cause structural damage to your home and can cost you.

What can you do to prevent termite damage?

As a homeowner, you can take precautions and institute measurable termite control in your home. These tips have been designed for you to implement yourself to prevent termites. Although you can implement these tips on your own, it is important to have a qualified professional inspect your home to be sure you do not already have an infestation problem.

8 simple steps to prevent costly termite damage:

1Take all wooden materials you do not need and keep them stored away from your house. Any extra pieces of wood left lying around will attract termites.

2Termites are not only attracted to wood, but they are attracted to areas where moisture and humidity are high. Try to avoid water leakage, buildup of rainwater or any other places where water can collect and promote termite growth.

3Inspect your home for cracks or broken holes, especially in the foundation. Make sure to seal them up immediately.

4Keep gutters and downspouts free of debris so that rain water will not collect. Use splash blocks to help direct water away from the foundation.

5Be sure the crawl space, basement and attic are properly ventilated and dry. You can put a plastic moisture barrier on the ground in the crawl space.

6Avoid any wood and soil contact around your home. Soil and mulch levels should be at least 6 inches lower than the stucco or framing of the house. For wooden steps, be sure to support them with cement instead of the ground. Use concrete pier blocks for support posts for decks and patio covers.

7Do not plant trees too close to the house and keep shrubs, vines and bushes away from the foundation to help with termite control.

8Paint can be like a barrier for dry wood termites. Keep the exterior of your home well painted. Screen all vents to prevent them from flying into the attic.

Prevent the damage of termites through these simple steps for termite control.

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Comments (1)

• |2009-07-07 12:31:39 honlude  - good tips
  These are definitely great tips to prevent termite damage. But if you already have termites, it is best to seek a local reputable company to do an analysis of the infestation. For more tips, you can visit www.carolinapest.com
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