How to Deal With Termites and When to Treat Them

Termites are insects that feed on wood and can cause significant damage.

Termites are highly destructive insects that feed on anything made of wood. They can infest the home and cause incredible damage in a short period of time. Prevention is the best method for dealing with termites, but for many homeowners, hindsight is 20/20. Deal with termites as soon as possible in order to minimize damage.

Instructions

1. Remove any wood debris from the areas surrounding your home. Wood is food for termites, and if there is wood near your foundation, termites are likely to follow. Termites can feed on wood whether it is on the surface or beneath the soil, and the easiest way for termites to invade your home is through cracks n your basement and foundation.

2. Make sure that water drains away from your home. Moisture helps termites thrive, and standing water can be detrimental. Contact an exterminator specializing in termites if you're unsure whether the levels of moisture near your home are safe.

3. Use pressure-treated lumber for building projects near the foundation of the home. Pressure-treated wood is more resistant to infestation than other types of wood and is less likely to decay. Wood that has been treated with creosote is another option.

4. Perform regular inspections of your home. Be on the lookout for any unusual wood damage, particularly in the areas surrounding the foundation. Keep in mind that damage may not always be readily visible, and look carefully at any cracks or crevices.

5. Call an exterminator the moment you realize there may be a problem, whether you are sure or not. An exterminator will be able to guarantee the removal of all termites and will also be able to determine what parts of the house are infested.

6. Take precautions to keep the termites away once they have been exterminated. An exterminator can help you make the contacts you need for any repairs. Sandbars or termite shields may be needed to help prevent further termite problems.

Tips & Warnings

• Consulting an exterminator is the best way to determine whether you have termites.

References

• University of Nebraska-Lincoln: UNL Extension in Lancaster Co.: Preventing Termite Infestations:
• Home Tips Plus: How To Deal With Termites

Resources

• Orkin