Can a homeowner contribute to the termite infestation at home?
The first step in preventing termite infestation at home is realizing that some of the things that we do (or not do) and objects that we own could be factors that attract these pests. Termites are expected to be near their food sources. The prime environment where they live is in areas where soft, rotting wood is available. With this awareness, you will begin to understand that you might be doing things that contribute to more harm than good for your home. However, educating yourself is a drastic leap in keeping your home free from termite infestation.
What are the things in my house that invite termites?
Moisture
Termites attack the homes in a serene and undisturbed manner. They prefer crawling into dark spaces that are often unexpected by the owners. That said, they could easily feast on moist areas and do their business. As a homeowner, the most efficient first step is to think of ways to reduce the moisture in your house’s spaces. You may do this by actively using the air conditioner, ventilation fans, or exhaust fans, avoiding wet laundry inside, and putting your houseplants outside. However, these are only temporary solutions. In the end, nothing beats the aid of termite inspectors.
Piles of Wood
It is known to many that wood attracts termites. Through eating them, they get the nutrients they need in order to live and survive. However, it is disturbing to know that these pests can chunk on a lot of wood in a short span. Some of the fastest species of termites can actually be the ones that infest homes. When there is a presence of decay and moisture in the woodpiles at home, termites could be attracted by them.
Leaking Pipes or Clogged Gutters
Research claims that roughly 90% of the termites that infest homes are due to the pooling water in the areas of our house. Even through concrete slabs, these pests can come through as long as they discover unsealed or cracked spaces. Too much moisture in the gutter weakens and softens your roof. Hence, termites take advantage of this opportunity to invade it. Cleaning your gutter and repairing leaking pipes are necessary not just to avoid termite infestation but to have a safer and more efficient home.
Cracks from Exteriors
The presence of a fissure in your home does not equate to the presence of termites in your house. It is safe to remember that they cannot feed on concrete. However, this does not mean that they cannot do anything about it. They only use these crevices as their gateway to the premises of your home. Gaps as small as 2mm would be enough to let termites inside. Even window and door cracks can help these pests to enter your home and build their colonies.
Moist Soil
Generally, termites are so into moist things. They are immensely attracted to them that even the soil near the surface of your residence could draw their attention. When this happens, not only will you attract these termites near your home, but you are also giving them a reason to venture for more food inside your house. In order to know how you could keep your soil from being moist, it is advisable to figure out what keeps it that way.
Those mentioned above are among the significant contributors to termite infestation at home (and outside). In your house right now, you could probably see one or all of these things. Do not be afraid. Always convincing oneself to do an inspection would make a great “first aid” against it. The next step should be asking for help and learning more from the experts.
Having termite issues in your home? Call Attack Pest and Termite Management to get rid of them. Serving South Pasadena and San Marino areas.