Termites pose a significant threat to the value of your home by targeting its wooden infrastructure; if they aren’t detected and eliminated early, irreparable damage can be done. Prevention and early detection are key to protecting your home, so it’s critical for you to be at least one step ahead of this destructive insect. The following list presents the 10 highest profile targets and access points termites will be looking for around your home:
- Foundation cracks: Any opening along your foundation that gives termites an easy access route to the wood they seek should be addressed immediately
- Water damaged/rotten wood: Termites will take the path of least resistance if possible, and old soft wood is much easier to chew.
- Eaves and overhangs: There can be gaps where the wall meets the roof; weather might not come in because the roof covers the opening, but termites don’t need much space to get through.
- Wood that touches the ground: Wooden siding, beams or supports that make contact with the ground are likely to absorb moisture and provide a softer target for termite jaws.
- Crawlspaces: We might not like to go into them, but they can be a treasure trove of wood debris to attract termites.
- Landscaping: Untreated wood chips and mulch can make an attractive base of operations for termites as they plan their next attack on your home.
- Moisture from leaks, floods, or foundation issues: Not only does water damage make wood easier for termites to consume, but sources of water are also needed for their colony…excessive dampness can make your home attractive to them.
- Plumbing: Look out for entry points wherever you have pipes coming out of your exterior wall, such as garden hose spigots. Termites might be attracted looking for water, and discover a way inside.
- Windows: Even a tiny crack will allow termites access, and it isn’t your living room they’re after but the wooden framework inside your walls. Look for cracks around the outside of the window frame where it meets your siding..
- Woodpiles: Everyone loves a nice fireplace, but don’t stack wood against the side of your house, as it could both attract termites and conceal their point of entry into the house proper.
Use this list as a starting point for planning your defense against these invasive pests. The cost of protecting your home is much cheaper than the cost of repairing the damage termites can cause, or the loss of resale value on your family’s biggest investment.
Copyright © 2016 David Winkler-Groschen CC-BY-SA-4.0