Indoor & Outdoor Termite Prevention Tips

Termites are a nightmare for homeowners and widely known as a pest that causes the most monetary damage once an infestation starts. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) estimates termites cost $5 billion in damages to homes and business in the United States annually. Termite prevention is a two-part practice, consisting of treating the infestation colony and stopping termites from entering your home. Richmond Pest Control, a professional pest extermination company in Staten Island NY, offers 10 easy termite prevention tips for homeowners to keep these dangerous pests away from your property.

Top 10 Termite Prevention Tips

Monitor Activity: The first step in prevention is to consistently monitory wooded areas around your home for termite activity. Pest control professionals will also recommend installing monitoring stations, which do not protect against infestation, but will provide initial warning signs.

Remove Dead Trees: A breeding ground for termite colonies, dead trees should be removed immediately.

Use Termite Treated Wood: In gardens, for retaining walls or fences, all wood used on your property should be pre-treated for termites.

Check Door & Window Seals: Prevent access by properly sealing all cracks in siding, rooftops, windows and doors. Also be sure to check your screen doors for rips and tears.

Repair Damaged Areas: Cracked or broken weather strips, paneling and siding must be repaired and/or replaced immediately. Even the smallest entry point is enough for a termite and it’s colony to invade your home and wreak havoc.

Reduce Moisture: Termite colonies need moisture to survive, to ensure effective termite prevention make sure your home is dry. Clean up puddles of water, repair leaking pipes and install dehumidifiers if you basement or crawl space is especially humid.

Store Wood Properly: Whether used for fireplaces, wood stoves or an outdoor fire pit, all wood should be stored at least 20 feet from your home.

Inspect Exterior Wood: You should frequently inspect those wood piles for any signs of termite infestation. You do not want to invite the colony into your home by carrying their food source right to your door.

Reduce Food Sources: The main food source of termites is a sugar called cellulose, which is present in wood and clothing. Again, make sure to keep all wood a good distance from your home and don’t leave clothing piles scattered around.

Annual Termite Inspections: While many of our above methods are DIY termite prevention tips, the best way to ensure your home is safe is to call a professional pest control company for an annual termite inspection. These home examinations will help to stop any issues before they arise. Exterminators will not only look for telltale signs of a termite infestation, but also use preventative treatment methods to keep pests away.

Protect your Home from Termites & Pests

Your home is your largest investment, be sure to protect it by carefully following the Richmond Pest Control termite prevention guidelines. Business owners, click here for preventative tips on your commercial property. To schedule your preventative termite maintenance inspection, call our professional exterminators at 718-667-5200 today. Besides termites, we’re available for a wide variety of pest control services including bed bugs, rodents, infestations, pigeon control, fleas and more! Richmond Pest Control proudly serves Staten Island, NY as well as the surrounding boroughs and into Central, NJ for your convenience.