We all know that termites like wood. But is there anything else that attracts termites? And why do some homes get termites while others escape unscathed?
The termite experts at Scherzinger are here to answer your questions. Keep reading to find out what causes termites to invade and how you can prevent an infestation of your home.
What Causes Termites
#1 Wood
Termites like wood because it is a source of food and—for some species—shelter. This means that wood homes are susceptible, of course, but it doesn’t mean that other types of homes aren’t. Brick, stone, and stucco houses aren’t immune. Any house that has wood floors and walls is vulnerable to termite damage.
Termites may find their way into your home via wood that comes into contact with your home, like your deck, mulch, stacked firewood, and even tree limbs.
#2 Moisture
Some species of termites, like subterranean termites, are attracted to moisture. Any standing water around your home’s foundation might entice termites. Excess moisture could be caused by leaky pipes and poor gutter drainage.
#3 Openings in Your Home’s Exterior
Termites are tiny and can make their way into your home from the soil via just about any opening. While they can’t get through solid concrete, they can squeeze through a crack in concrete just 1/32nd of an inch wide.
#4 Your Home’s Location
Termites are found in every state except Alaska. However, they are more prevalent in some states than others. According to the U.S. Forest Service’s Termite Infestation Probability Zone Map, the state of Ohio falls in the “moderate to heavy” zone. (This isn’t great news for homeowners, but at least we don’t live in the Gulf states, which see very heavy termite activity.)
How to Prevent Termites
When dealing with termites, prevention is key. The best way to avoid an infestation is to make your home less attractive to termites. This includes doing the following:
- Removing wood touching the foundation of your home, like mulch and tree branches.
- Getting rid of termite food sources, like dead trees and firewood.
- Inspecting all lumber before using it in home DIY projects.
- Fixing any plumbing and water drainage issues that cause water to accumulate.
- Sealing off points of entry into your home by re-caulking, replacing broken shingles, and fixing loose seals around plumbing and electrical lines.
If you see evidence of termites around your house, don’t hesitate to call a pest control professional right away. An expert will be able to take a look at your property and help you come up with solutions to keep termites out of your home.
Concerned you might already have a termite infestation on your hands? Contact ScherZinger Pest Control a trusted pest control company in the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky areas, including Dayton, OH, and now Columbus, OH. We’ve been pioneers, engineering new standards for ways of eliminating and controlling bugs and pests. Contact us by phone at 1-877-748-9888 or through our website, Facebook, or Twitter.