Serving Memphis, Cordova, Germantown & Collierville TN
Termite damage costs homeowners in the United States an estimated $5 billion annually. These wood-destroying insects can infest homes and wooden structures without you knowing until significant damage has been done. Termites often cause severe damage to homes while remaining undetected unless you have regular termite inspections or a termite warranty from a quality pest control company in Cordova. While enlisting the help of a pest control company is a definite way of preventing termites, there are other steps you can take to protect your home. Today on the blog, AAA Termite & Pest Control shares 10 tips to prevent termites in your Memphis home and what to do if you discover signs of termites.
Keep mulch away from your home’s foundation
Many homeowners spruce up their landscape each spring by adding new mulch in their flower beds and garden. However, what most homeowners do not know is that mulch attracts termites. It’s best to spread mulch at least 4” away from your home’s foundation. Mulching directly against your home provides an easy access point for termites to enter. Other options besides mulch are to add pine straw or pea gravel to deter termites.
Maintain trees and shrubs
Ideally, keep trees and shrubs trimmed and cut back away from your home. Branches touching the sides of your home or the roof allow termites and other pests direct access to your home. The fewer access areas, the less likely you will be dealing with a termite or pest infestation. If you’re unable to maintain your trees and shrubs, call a professional landscaper to do the job for you, especially if you do not possess the necessary safety equipment or skill.
Avoid leaving dead wood, stumps, or fallen tree branches on your lawn
Rotting wood attracts termites, so be sure to remove old stumps, fallen tree branches, and dead wood from your property. Not only does it attract wood-destroying insects, but it also is an eyesore and could affect the health of your lawn and other nearby plants.
Repair any exposed or rotting wood in your home
Regularly inspect your home for any exposed or rotting wood. Visually inspect your roof’s soffits, gutters, the exterior walls, and around window and door frames, which are areas most prone to water damage. It is helpful to keep your gutters cleaned out, as clogged gutters lead to water backup and wood damage.
Stack firewood away from your home and other wooden structures
If you keep firewood to heat your home or use it in an outdoor firepit, avoid stacking it on your porch or against your home. Instead, keep the wood logs stacked at least 20 feet away from your home or other wooden structures like sheds. It’s best to keep it covered so that it doesn’t stay wet and begin rotting, which could attract termites.
Ensure proper grading and drainage
Water and moisture destroy wood. Therefore, ensure your property is graded so that water runs away from your home. If you notice water or moisture accumulating in your basement or crawlspace, contact a professional to help seal out moisture and keep these areas of your home dry. That way, termites are less likely to enter.
Repair leaky pipes and faucets
Termites can travel throughout your home looking for soft, rotting wood. It would be helpful to maintain faucets and pipes, repairing any leaks as soon as you notice them. Check underneath sinks and in your crawlspace (if you have one) so that you can spot leaks when they start and before significant damage has been done.
Keep porch and outdoor lighting turned off during termite swarming season
Spring is termite swarming season. It’s when termites tend to cause the most damage, although they remain active year-round in Memphis. Porch and outdoor lighting attract termites and other insects. It’s best to keep outdoor lights turned off at night unless absolutely necessary or needed for safety reasons.
Have your home inspected for termites annually
Termite inspections in Memphis are the best way to know when wood-destroying insects have infiltrated your home. Termites can be difficult to spot unless you are a trained pest control professional. AAA Termite & Pest Control provides termite inspections for homeowners and if you are buying or selling a home in Memphis.
Enroll in an annual termite control plan
The best way to maintain your peace of mind and ensure termites will not destroy your home is to enroll in an annual termite control program. Termite control includes routine termite inspections and termite treatment if wood-destroying insects are discovered in your home. These services are provided for one low cost, which is much less than footing a termite repair bill out of your own wallet.
Termite Control in Memphis and Cordova
Maintain your peace of mind by getting a termite control plan for your Memphis or Cordova home. AAA Termite & Pest Control Offers termite inspections and treatment plans to keep your home protected. To learn more or enroll in our program, please call AAA Termite & Pest Control at (901) 457-1117.