Home is a valuable asset for human beings. Sometimes, unwanted guests invade our house and create havoc. Termites are one of the most devastating pests that are also known as silent destroyers. They can damage the structural integrity of the house causing severe damage. Termites can even damage the foundation of the house making the building collapse. They infest homes and properties when they find them appealing. In this article, we will discuss about reasons that are attracting termites in your house.

Moisture in the House

Termites are attracted to humid environments.  If you are living in a humid environment then there are high chances of termites infesting your home. Make sure that there is no standing water in and around your home. If there are any leaky pipes or faucets in the house, repair them as soon as possible because they make a perfect environment for termites in the house. Repair seepage on walls and ceilings. keep humid areas like the bathroom properly ventilated and use a dehumidifier if there is excess moisture in the house.

Wooden Structure

Termites feed on cellulose which is the primary content of wood. Wooden structures in your home like baseboards, wooden beams, and furniture are all potential targets of termites in the house. The wooden structures that are in direct contact with the soil or the humid environment are more prone to termite infestation. If you are keeping wood piles and stacks of firewood close to the house, you are inviting termites into your house. Store firewood atleast 20 ft away from your home.

Cracks and Crevices

Termites can enter your homes through small cracks and crevices. If you are ignoring small cracks and gaps in your house, then this is the thing you might be doing to attract termites. Seal the cracks and gaps with cement and caulk and screen doors and windows to prevent termites from entering your property. Ensure all vents are properly sealed.

Dead Trees and Stumps

If you have dead trees and stumps in your ward, then termites can easily nest there and move inside your house through them. You must clear all dead trees from your yard before they attract termites and infest your home.

Not Trimming Your Trees and Woods

If you are not maintaining your yard and keeping the trees and shrubs near the foundation of your home then termites can easily invade your home. They will use these branches and trees to enter your home. Regularly trim the trees and shrubs that come into contact with your wood siding.

Damp Crawl Spaces

These spaces are notorious for termite infestation. Make sure that there is no excess moisture in the crawl spaces such as basements. Waterproof these areas and reduce the humidity using a dehumidifier. Do not store things like cardboard boxes in these places as they contain cellulose, which is the primary food of termites.

Clogged Drains

Not cleaning your gutters frequently will cause leaves and other debris to build up. This can attract termites and they can easily access your home. Clean and maintain your gutters to prevent any debris build-up. Install splash blocks so that water does not accumulate in the foundation of your home.

Light Fixtures

After rainfall, subterranean termites will swarm and search for a breeding site or a new home. Often swarms are attracted to artificial lights or street lights near your house. Turn off your porch or other light fixtures in your house when not in use. Secure windows with shade-resistant curtains that can block out light from inside and outside of your home.

Tips to Prevent Termites in the House

Preventing termite infestations and taking necessary measures is crucial to save your property from any damage.

• Schedule regular inspections by pest control professionals. They can detect early signs of infestations and can take immediate measures to protect your property from severe damage.
• To prevent moisture from building up and attracting termites, make sure your crawl space and attic have adequate ventilation.
• You can also install physical or chemical termite barriers around your home. This will prevent termites from entering your property.
• Use termite-resistant wood while renovating or building the house. These woods are pressure-treated and resistant to termite infestations.
• Liquid termiticides can be applied to create a protective barrier around your home’s foundation to prevent them from invading your property.
• If there is a severe infestation in your house, fumigation is necessary. It involves sealing your home and introducing a fumigant gas that penetrates wood and eliminates termites.
• Hire Professional pest control professionals, if you are dealing with termite infestation in your house.

Conclusion

 If these tips are not effective, you must seek professional assistance. Once termites are in your home, they cannot be eradicated with DIY methods. The best way to get rid of termite infestation is to hire a pest control in Kolkata. They will assess the situation and locate the source of the infestation. Accordingly, they will implement the best treatment method to remove termites from your house.