Ever wonder why termites can be so hard to locate? It’s because they
have soft, white bodies that will dry out if they’re exposed to
air. Because of this, they tend to stay in their colonies or underground.
When the weather gets warmer, termites will swarm in the afternoon often
after a rain shower—this is when you may notice them. If you see
one of these white-bodied pests, there is no doubt that there’s
a colony nearby.
Unfortunately, regardless of their construction type, all home structures
can provide a food source for termites. Termites need cellulose to survive.
Cellulose is found in in wood, including plants and trees, and any product
derived from wood: lumber, pallets, cardboard boxes, paper products.
You should always maintain an adequate flow of air around the perimeter of your home; remove excessive plant cover and wood mulch, and keep any firewood or other wooden objects away from the house. If possible, keep structural wood away from the ground, and keep an eye on it for signs of rotting. Don’t forget your home’s gutters, either. Make sure they’re clear of debris and lead rainwater away from the house. It’s also a good idea to place screens on outside vents, and quickly repair any faucets, water pipes and A/C units. Essentially, the goal while preventing termites is to eliminate any moisture problems and remove these pests’ possible food sources.
There are two types of homes in Florida: those who have termites and those who don’t YET have termites. It is vital that you take preventative action to protect your home from this unrelenting pest. Preventative treatment is the more affordable and reliable way of practicingresidential termite control. The repair and clean up process after an infestation without warranty coverage can be costly.
For a free property evaluation, contact us today at 800-226-3139.