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Termites are one of the most common pests in the United States, causing billions of dollars in damage each year. While there are many things you can do to prevent termites from infesting your home, there are also a few things you may be doing that are actually attracting them. Some of these things are obvious, while others may surprise you.
Here are seven things you should stop doing if you want to keep termites away:
1. Leaving Wood or Other Cellulose-Based Materials Near Your Home
Termites are attracted to wood and other cellulose-based materials, so it’s important to keep these materials away from your home. This includes things like firewood, mulch, and leaves. If you must store these materials near your home, be sure to keep them elevated off the ground and away from any potential entry points.
2. Allowing Water to Pool around Your Home
Termites are attracted to moisture, so standing water is a major problem. Make sure your gutters are clean and functioning properly, and that there is no pooling of water around your foundation. If you have a swimming pool, be sure to keep it properly maintained and free of debris.
3. Leaving Food Out in the Open
While termites don’t eat food, they are attracted to it. If you leave food out in the open, it will attract other pests, which can then attract termites. Be sure to keep all food in sealed containers and clean up any spills immediately.
4. Having Cracks or Gaps in Your Home’s Foundation
Termites can squeeze through even the smallest cracks or gaps in your home’s foundation. Be sure to seal any cracks or gaps you find promptly, and have your home’s foundation inspected regularly for any new ones.
5. Having Trees and Shrubs Touching Your Home
Trees and shrubs that touch your home provide a pathway for termites to get to your house. If you have any trees or shrubs touching your home, trim them back, so they are at least 6 inches away from the structure.
6. Having an Inadequate Ventilation in Your Attic
Poor ventilation in your attic can cause moisture to build up, which will attract termites. Be sure your attic is properly ventilated to avoid this problem.
7. Ignoring Signs of a Termite Problem
If you see signs of a termite problem, it’s important to take action immediately. These signs include things like wood that sounds hollow when tapped, piles of wings, or mud tubes on your foundation. If you see any of these signs, contact a pest control professional right away.
Conclusion
There are several things you need to stop doing to help keep termites away from your home. Some of these include: leaving wood or cellulose-based materials near your home, allowing water to pool around your home, leaving food out in the open, having cracks or gaps in your home’s foundation, and having trees and shrubs touching your home.
Finally, it also includes inadequate ventilation in your attic and ignoring signs of termite problems. By keeping these in mind, you can help prevent termites from infesting your home. If you do find yourself with a termite problem, be sure to contact a pest control professional right away for treatment.
Do you need pest control in Bakersfield? RidX Pest Control can help! Whether you have a residential or commercial property, we can eliminate ants, termites, roaches, rodents, and more. We have the experience and knowledge to get the job done right, and we will work with you to make sure that your property is pest-free. Give us a call today!
