If you want to keep termites away, you need to make sure that the action you take is sufficient for the task at hand. You may have had your home treated for termite protection years ago. But, that doesn't mean your home is still protected. This is especially true if any changes have taken place. Here are four areas you need to check to provide proper protection against termite infestations.
Lumber
If you've recently built a new wood shed or a new deck, your home may no longer be protected against termites. This is especially true if you don't take steps to treat the wood. Any time you add new wood to your property, you need to make sure that it receives termite treatment. This includes sheds and outbuildings. Without the treatment, your home is a target for termite activity. This is also true if you've decided to have a room addition built onto your home. Once the room addition is complete, you need to have an exterminator come out to retreat your home for termite protection.
Soil
If you have soil around the foundation of your home, you need to have it treated with a termite insecticide. This is especially important if you plan to use decorative mulch around your home. Soil moisture provides the perfect environment for termite activity. They'll be attracted to the moisture, but stay for access to your home. Soil treatment helps to kill the termites before they have a chance to infest your home. If the soil is disturbed, which can happen during home improvement projects, be sure to schedule a fresh application of termite insecticide.
Foundation
If you haven't inspected the foundation of your home, you need to do that right away. Foundation problems increase your risk for termite infestations. Two big issues actually involve soil and vegetation. If your foundation is covered by soil or vegetation, you could be inviting termites into your home. To reduce that risk, clear vegetation away from the foundation and lower the soil levels. You should be able to see the foundation.
Roof
If you want to protect your home from termites, head up to the roof. Most people overlook the roof when designing their termite protection plan. You might not realize this, but any type of moist wood can attract termites. This includes the moist wood found on your roof. To keep termites away, inspect the areas around roof vents, flashings, and the chimney. If you have skylights, check those as well. If you find moisture in any of those areas, take care of repairs right away. Taking care of repairs quickly will help to protect your home from termite infestations.
Don't let your home fall victim to termite infestations. Use the tips provided here to give your home the protection it needs. For continuous protection, be sure to contact a termite pest control service near you.