Make Termites Skip Your Home

Finding termites in your home can make you gasp. I'm sure that is how Mary over at Shelterrific felt after she found the little buggers underneath a damp section of her basement wall. According to Orkin, 95% of termite damage in North America is caused by the Subterranean Termite which thrives in underground moist environments (such as basements).

   

Courtesy of Orkin, here are some do-it-yourself steps you can take to make your home less appealing to termites.

Eliminate Moisture Problems
* Repair leaking faucets, water pipes, and a/c units
* Divert water from foundation
* Keep gutters and down-spouts clean
* Remove excessive plant cover and wood mulch
* Get rid of standing water on roof
* Keep all vents clear and open
* Seal entry points around water and utility lines or pipes

Remove Food Sources
* Keep firewood, lumber, or paper away from foundation or crawl space
* Get rid of stumps and debris near house
* Place screens on outside vents
* Check decks and wooden fences for damage
* Wood on your home shouldn't contact the soil

Termite Warning Signs
Some indications you may have a termite infestation:
* A temporary swarm of winged insects in your home or from the soil around your home.
* Any cracked or bubbling paint or frass (termite droppings).
* Wood that sounds hollow when tapped.
* Mud tubes on exterior walls, wooden beams, or in crawl spaces.
* Discarded wings from swarmers.