When it comes to property damage, termites are one of the worst offenders in the pest world. They cause millions of dollars in damage every year, but you don't need to be one of the many victims of this costly damage. To save yourself money and trouble, learn every step you need to take to implement proper termite prevention.
Wilmington Termites
To the untrained eye, termites resemble ants, but termites and ants differ greatly, and you can easily tell the difference between the two insects. Unlike ants, termites are white, have straight antennae, and don't have visible segmentation. Unfortunately, termites aren't always seen until damage has been done. They eat cellulose, which is found in wood products, so as they search for food, they could make their way into your walls and furniture. They often leave behind a trail of destruction, and that damage includes buckling ceilings, tight-fitting doors, and hard-to-open windows.
If the damage is extensive enough, maybe permanent, your home may no longer be safe. Even if the structure itself is unaffected, you may experience aesthetic complications. You might notice damage to your carpet, walls, or furniture. It's only a matter of time before the situation worsens.
The True Cost Of Termites
Once you see signs of termites, you need to act quickly. They will continue to destroy your property until you eliminate their population. Unfortunately, this costs money. You need to hire a professional pest control company to fight off termites, and while the cost of their services might be a turn-off, the real cost, ultimately, is in repair work.
Replacing your doors, windows, and floors comes at a high expense, and if you have structural damage, you'll need to spend even more money. Don't underestimate what termites can do to your home.
Keeping Termites Out
If you don't want to experience all of the trouble that comes with termites, you need to start protecting your home. And that means addressing factors that attract termites. Here are five ways to do precisely that:
1. Resolve Moisture Issues
Termites prefer moist wood to dry wood, so if you want to make your home less appealing to termites, resolve any issues that are causing excess water. Repair any leaking plumbing fixtures, and use a dehumidifier to keep the humidity in your basement or bathroom low.
2. Proper Wood Storage
If you have firewood that's exposed to the elements, it will become moist, which could then draw termites toward your property. Store your wood with care and prevent it from getting wet.
3. Keep Wood Away From Soil
When wood on your home directly touches the soil, it's easy for termites to access. To make it more difficult for termites to get into your home, keep wood away from the soil. If possible, place your wooden structures on concrete slabs.
4. Clear Debris
Termites and other pests seek out yards with debris, so with a little yard work, you can make your property much less appealing to termites. If you have any piles of leaves or branches, place them in the compost or the garbage. Mow your lawn frequently to prevent it from getting too long. If you don't use a bag for your lawn clippings, rake up the clippings and throw them away.
5. Call A Professional
Every little effort you make to keep termites away helps. However, there’s no 100% foolproof guarantee that termites won't find their way into your home. There's only one truly effective way to prevent and eliminate termites - professional help.
The most effective way to protect your home from termites is with our professional assistance. Our experienced technicians are ready to take on your termite prevention and elimination. If you're ready to get started, contact us at Jay Taylor Exterminating today.