3 Simple Ways To Avoid Subterranean Termite Problems

The warm and humid conditions in Florida are perfect for subterranean termites. Several species call Florida home, but the most common are the Eastern subterranean termite and the Formosan subterranean termite. The Formosan is less common but has been found in many locations around the state including Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville, Pensacola, Tallahassee and Tampa.

Termites eat cellulose, mostly in the form of wood. Both varieties of subterranean termites can cause serious damage to homes. This damage often goes unnoticed until extensive damage has occurred. The cost of repairs is usually many times the cost of prevention, inspection and treatment combined. Listed below are several important and low-cost techniques to help prevent termites.

Inspections are vital to termite prevention Inspect the outside of your home on a regular basis. Check the outside doors, window frames and moldings for evidence of termites – blistered paint or soft spots. Include foundation walls in your inspection. Look for mud tubes. Contact your pest control company immediately if you find problems. Also ask the company for an annual termite inspection.

Don’t provide termites with an easy way into the house Don’t allow wood such as firewood, scrap lumber, fencing and planter boxes, to come into contact with the outside of your house. Don’t store firewood in the garage. Make sure your siding (except masonry and brick) is at least 6 – 8 inches above soil level. Otherwise talk to your pest control company to find a way to prevent termites from using that to enter your home. Make sure that any mulch does not come into contact with the siding.

Prevent moisture problems to help prevent termites Moist wood attracts termites. Termite prevention means making sure water from any irrigation system doesn’t contact outside your walls or foundation. The same goes for all air conditioner condensation – keep that moisture away from all wood. Repair indoor leaks and roof leaks immediately. Moist wood in the roof, attic, walls, bathroom, and sink areas can attract termites and cause major problems. Check your gutters and downspouts and repair problems quickly.

Subterranean termites are widely distributed throughout Florida. For that reason these prevention techniques alone might not be enough. If you do get attacked by termites, you must take action to prevent major damage. Luckily, there are tools and techniques to eradicate termites from your home. Several new subterranean termite control methods have been introduced in the past few years. Ask your pest control professional to explain the options.

Florida Bug Inspectors has more than 25 years experience protecting Tampa homes from subterranean termites. Call FBI if you live in Brandon, Riverview, Ruskin or other nearby communities.