In Pursuit of Curb Appeal

Termites are such a serious problem that most mortgages cannot be completed until there has been an official termite inspection on the property. Given the right circumstances, a termite can render homes and buildings uninhabitable by ruining the wood and underlying supportive structure. So, what can a person do to make their home or office safe from termites? Prevention is the key to avoiding a termite infestation. Here are some ways to keep your risk low for termites.

1. Watch Your Wood

Termites feed on wood, and while you can't completely remove the presence of wood from your home or office, you can make it less attractive. Coat any wood surfaces or structures with either an insecticide or a clear varnish that will act as a protective coating from both moisture and termites.

Additionally, regularly inspect the wood of the structure and ensure that it is not rotting, weak or already the feast site of termites. If you do notice any weak spots that could be tempting, replace the wood immediately.

2. Note Your Landscaping

Your landscaping choices can make your home more desirable to termites if you feature any of these potential problems in your yard:

• Wood mulch
• Overhanging branches
• Shrubs and plants growing close or up against the house or building
• Standing moisture or wet areas  

All of these things welcome termites with open arms, but by removing these comfy conditions you can make termites look elsewhere to begin with.

3. Get Regular Pest Inspections

Unless you are well versed in termite habitats and ways, you need to have a professional pest control company inspect your property once a year. If you live in areas where neighbors have a termite problem, you may want to up your inspection to twice a year. Professionals have the training and tools to take note of any anomalies (that you could have missed) that indicate termites.

A yearly inspection will ensure that a potential termite problem is noticed immediately, thus creating an opportunity for prompt and aggressive treatment. The longer a termite problem goes unnoticed, the harder it will be to eradicate. Schedule your home or building for pest control on a regular basis and you can nip a problem in the bud.

Termites are nothing to be taken lightly, and since they can be so destructive, it is always less expensive and safer to opt for prevention. Keep your guard up with these tips and you may be able to avoid having to deal with termites!