Everybody knows termites are attracted to wood. But did you know there are other factors that can entice termites to swarm on your home or business? It’s true. Worse still, unless you know what these triggers are, you could inadvertently be creating the perfect conditions for termites to come inside and thrive.
Fortunately, by knowing what termite’s desire in the perfect home, you can take the necessary steps to make sure that your home or business is less likely to end up on their hit list.
Here are the four most common causes of a termite infestation.
Moisture
Both subterranean and dampwood termites are attracted to all kinds of moisture. These include standing water, damp timber, leaking drainage pipes and appliances, and humid areas with low airflow. Either one of these sources of moisture can increase the risk of infestation.
Dripping air conditioner units can increase the moisture content of soil around the foundation of your property. On top of this, standing water on your roof or a blocked gutter drain can create the perfect conditions for termites.
To reduce the risk of a termite infestation, instantly repair any leaking plumbing fixtures or appliances, and clear out any blocked gutters.
Build-up of Timber around the Premise
Timber leaning against a building, or piled up on the ground near the foundation, can be used as a ‘connecting bridge’ for termites to access the premise.
Untreated timber used as decking material can also serve as food for termites and encourage them to investigate further. Even tall trees with branches touching the premise can be used by termites to gain access.
To safeguard your property, don’t have any timber connect to the building. Secondly, if you store firewood in the winter, stack the piles on a raised platform and make sure there’s enough airflow between each piece of wood to keep it dry. Finally, have your surrounding trees pruned regularly so the branches can no longer reach your property.
New Construction and Renovations
Whether you’re building a new property, or extending an existing one, any leftover materials – including bricks, timber, glass, and foliage – can create the perfect environment for termites.
For this reason, after your next construction project, make sure the team thoroughly cleans up the construction site until the area is spotless.
Cracks in the Building Exterior
Cracks or gaps in the building foundation may be used by termites in order to gain entry to your property.
Subterranean termites may build mud tubes to burrow through these gaps and come inside. Meanwhile, gaps between doors and windows can be used by worker termites to gain entry as well.
To repair these structural issues, you’ll need to have the property inspected by a licensed builder. They can carry out the necessary repairs in order to seal up the gaps and repair any faults in the foundation.
On top of this, a licensed pest technician can inspect your property and clue you in to possible entry points.
Have you recently discovered a termite infestation due to one of these causes?
Contact All Bugs today for free advice and a quote for effective residential and commercial termite removal.
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