Termites are known as the ‘silent killers’; they infest homes and other structures, and cost billions of dollars yearly. These are very small insects that feed on cellulose that is present in woods and other similar products leading to decaying of homes and other buildings. It is important to prevent the infestations of termites to avoid a situation where a building must be evaluate and classified before repairs are made. Below are some of the useful measures one can take to avoid termite attacks.
1. Remove Moisture Sources: Termites requires water for survival, hence it is important for a timber to be slightly wet before applying this treatment on it. Often care should be taken to avoid all forms of leakage, moisture content, and inadequate aeration.
2. Use Termite-Resistant Materials: It is recommended to use casework constructed of treated lumber, metal or composite in the construction and furnishing.
3. Regular Inspections: It is recommended that termite inspections be made annually to identify cases of their occurrence early enough.
4. Soil Treatment: Spray termiticides at the exterior of your house, specifically, spraying them on the ground surrounding your house.
5. Baiting Systems: Place traps near the structures of your home and these will attract and kill termites.
6. Keep Firewood Away: Prevent fire accumulation by taking firewood and lumber a considerable distance from your home and ensure they are raised slightly off the ground.
7. Clear Debris: You should cut off the excessive branches of trees, remove the branches of plants and bushes and stumps in your compound.
8. Seal Entry Points: Check the existing gaps and joints in walls, and especially around the windows, doors, and pipes and seal them properly.
9. Reduce Soil Contact: Soil contact with your home’s foundation should be limited and this can be achieved by placing barriers or sand.
10. Monitor for Signs: Mud tubes, shed wings, and holes in the wood are some of the signs that will take one close to them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the frequency that a house should be checked for termites?
A: Clean yearly, or semi-annually if in high risk areas.
Q: Are there ways that I can avoid termites in the first place?
A: With regard to preventive measures it is cautiously stated that 100% protection is barely feasible.
Q: Do methods to prevent termite treatment pin expensive?
A: The costs of these are different but what is surprising is that the various types of prevention always tend to cheaper compared to the treatment types.
Q: Is applying do it yourself methods of prevention of termites possible?
A: However, it is advisable to seek the help of professionals in this process, although there are methods that one can do on their own.
Q: The protection that termite prevention offers lasts indefinitely.
A: The prevention methods are known to take between 5-10 years with the difference being attributed to the type of method used.
Conclusion
As it is evident from the information above, the prevention of termite infestations entails a lot of actions. The following is a list of 10 methods for how to guard your house against termites: In this way, the termite infestation can be minimized and your house remains safe. Remember, prevention is key. Annual check ups and proper care should check for any signs of termites and an adequate method of prevention can save you lots of money for damages.