Termites are among the most destructive household pests. Each year, they’re responsible for causing billions of dollars in damage to homes across the US.
The majority of Pennsylvania is subject to moderate to high termite pressure. That means homeowners in any part of the state need to take the threat seriously.
The unfortunate reality is that most people don’t even consider termites until it’s too late. By the time they’re even noticed, a termite infestation is likely in full swing.
At that point, a pest control specialist must be called in for extermination while you plan for major repairs.
The best thing for homeowners to do is get ahead of a termite problem before it starts. The first step to take in doing so is understanding what attracts termites, so you can take the proper steps to prevent them from ever entering your home.
How Dangerous Are Termites
Termites are a threat that should be taken seriously. They feed on the wooden structure of your home, which can lead to the need for major repairs if left unchecked.
It’s estimated that termites and similar pests are responsible for doing $30 billion in damage to homes in the US. The scariest thing about termites is that they work in silence.
They’re hidden in the walls, often never making their presence known until they’ve already done serious harm.
Subterranean termites can tunnel underground to reach your home and hide in mud tubes. You can easily miss them if you don’t know what to look for.
That’s why a professional termite inspection is so critical.
7 Things that Attract Termites to Your House
The best way to deal with a termite infestation is to get ahead of it and prevent it from starting in the first place.
A key step in doing so is learning what attracts them so that you can take the proper steps to avoid luring them into your home. These are the top seven things that attract termites:
1. Moisture and Leaks Around the Home
Termites prefer damp environments. Leaky pipes, clogged gutters, and poor drainage can all create the perfect conditions for termite activity. The moisture softens the wood, making it an easy food source.
2. Wood-to-Soil Contact
Wood siding, decking, or porch posts making direct contact with the soil is an open invitation for termites. This creates a bridge they can use to enter your home.
Subterranean termites can use wooden components to make their way in without ever being detected.
3. Mulch and Landscaping Materials Near the Foundation
Mulch and landscaping materials create a damp, shielded environment. While it isn’t the preferred food of termites, it does make for the perfect conditions that will attract them to your home.
4. Firewood, Lumber, or Debris Stored Against the House
Wood piles that are stored outside will naturally attract termites. You will start to notice termites swarming outside right after winter if you’re not careful with your firewood.
Placing them right next to your home is asking for problems as they’ll essentially bait termites in.
5. Dead Trees, Stumps, or Rotting Wood on the Property
Just like wood piles, stumps, logs, and other rotting wood can be an issue as they’re a prime food source. Termites will feed on them, and if they’re nearby your home, they can essentially act as bread crumbs leading them right to it.
6. Cracks in the Foundation or Gaps Around Utility Lines
Cracks and openings in the foundation and other parts of your home allow termites to enter. They’ll build mud tubes and work their way in through even the smallest openings undetected.
7. Warm, Dark, and Sheltered Spaces Inside Walls or Crawl Spaces
Termites prefer dark, warm areas such as crawl spaces, wall voids, and attics. They can feed in these areas without leaving a trace in the more active parts of a home.
How Do Professionals Get Rid of Termites
Professional pest control specialists can use a multitude of treatment procedures to deal with termites. Proven methods range from bait systems and liquid soil treatments to targeted wood treatments.
Exactly what they will do depends on the severity and specifics of a given situation, but multiple methods will likely be put to use.
More than treating them, experienced professionals know what to look for. You can bring them in to simply inspect for termites if you suspect you may have an issue or simply want to be proactive.
They’ll know where to look, what signs to watch out for, and help you make an effective plan to deal with and prevent termite infestations.
Preventative Tips for Termite Control
A termite infestation might seem inevitable in Pennsylvania, where the forested terrain makes termites an annual reality for most homeowners.
Preventing termites really comes down to being mindful of what attracts them and taking the proper steps to avoid inviting them into your home.
Keeping the following tips in mind can ultimately save you thousands of dollars in repairs due to a termite problem that you could have prevented:
- Schedule regular termite inspections with a professional.
- Fix leaks and improve drainage around your home.
- Keep firewood and mulch away from the foundation.
- Seal cracks and gaps around pipes, wires, and the foundation.
- Maintain proper ventilation in attics and crawl spaces.
While there are several termite treatments available, the only sure long-term solution to termites is a bait station monitored by an expert professional.
FAQs
Does mulch really attract termites?
Yes. Mulch may not be a primary food source but can attract termites. It creates a damp, favorable environment that can lead them into your home.
Can termites get into homes with concrete foundations?
Yes. Termites can make their way past concrete foundations through cracks, utility gaps, and other openings.
Do termites only eat wood?
No. While wood is their preferred food, termites will eat anything cellulose-based, such as paper and cardboard.
Will keeping firewood near the house cause termites?
Yes. Wood piles are prime food sources for termites and they will feed on them. Always keep stacks elevated and at least 20 feet away from the foundation.
