Flying termites may be tiny, but they pack a mighty punch when it comes to causing damage to your property. These destructive pests cost U.S. homeowners a staggering $5 billion in repairs annually1.
But luckily, there are several effective DIY strategies you can employ to protect your home from these winged invaders.
1. Seal Entry Points & Cracks
One of the most crucial steps in preventing flying termites from invading your home is to seal any potential entry points. Termites can squeeze through the tiniest of cracks, so it’s essential to be thorough.
Inspect your home’s foundation, walls, and roof for any gaps, cracks, or holes. Pay special attention to areas around windows, doors, and utility line entrance points. Use a high-quality sealant, such as silicone caulk, to fill in these openings, creating an impenetrable barrier against termites.
2. Eliminate Moisture Problems
Flying termites are attracted to moisture, so reducing humidity levels in and around your home is key to keeping them at bay. Start by fixing any leaking pipes, faucets, or AC units that could be creating damp spots.
Ensure proper drainage around your home’s foundation to prevent water from pooling near the structure. Keep gutters and downspouts clean and free of debris to allow for smooth water flow. Additionally, consider installing a dehumidifier in particularly humid areas, such as basements or crawl spaces.
3. Remove Wood-to-Ground Contact
Termites often gain access to homes through wood that is in direct contact with the soil. To minimize this risk, make sure there is at least a 6-inch clearance between the ground and any wooden elements of your property, such as siding or decks.
Avoid using wooden mulch near your home’s foundation, as it can serve as a bridge for termites. Instead, opt for non-organic alternatives like gravel or rubber mulch.
4. Use Termite-Resistant Materials
When building or renovating, consider using materials that are naturally resistant to termites. Pressure-treated wood is a popular choice, as it has been infused with chemicals that deter termites from feeding on it.
Other options include steel framing, concrete, and masonry. While these materials may be more expensive upfront, they can save you thousands in potential termite damage down the line.
5. Maintain a Termite-Unfriendly Yard
Your yard can either invite termites or keep them at bay, depending on how you maintain it. Start by removing any dead wood, stumps, or decaying vegetation from your property, as these can attract termites.
Keep mulch at least 15 inches away from your home’s foundation, and be vigilant about signs of termite activity if you use wood mulch. Regularly trim trees and shrubs so that they don’t come into contact with your house, and consider planting termite-repelling vegetation like vetiver grass or neem trees (as a bonus they also repel mosquitoes) if you live in zones nine or 10.
6. Set Up Termite Baits & Monitors
Termite baits and monitoring stations can be an effective way to detect and eliminate termite colonies before they have a chance to infest your home. These devices contain a slow-acting pesticide that termites carry back to their colony, eventually wiping it out.
Place bait stations strategically around your property, focusing on areas where termites are likely to forage, such as near wood piles or moist soil. Check the stations regularly for signs of activity, and replace the bait as needed.
7. Apply Termiticide Barriers
Termiticide barriers involve treating the soil around your home’s foundation with a chemical that repels or kills termites. This creates an invisible shield that prevents termites from accessing your house.
While it’s possible to apply termiticide yourself, it’s generally recommended to hire a professional pest control company for this task. Should you choose to DIY, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and wear protective gear.
8. Schedule Annual Inspections
Even with the most diligent DIY efforts, it’s crucial to have your home inspected for termites by a professional at least once a year. Trained pest control specialists can spot signs of infestation that the untrained eye might miss, allowing you to address problems early on.
During an inspection, the technician will thoroughly examine your home’s interior and exterior, looking for evidence of termite activity such as mud tubes, discarded wings, or damaged wood. If any issues are found, they can recommend an appropriate course of treatment to eliminate the infestation and prevent future problems.
Don’t Be Part of the 5 Billion Statistic
Always remember that prevention is always cheaper than repair, so don’t wait until it’s too late to take action. Protect your home and your peace of mind by staying vigilant and proactive in the fight against these destructive pests.
Source:
1. https://www.masseyservices.com/termite-damage-5-billion-threat/
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.