Termite Prevention
Termites feed on cellulose (which consists of wood, dead plant material, paper, etc.) in its various plant fiber forms. Subterranean and Dry wood termites are primarily responsible for structural damage associated with termites. Wood eating termites get cellulose, sugars and starches from the outer wood of trees. These termite species will also do extensive damage, given the chance, to wooden structures like tree stumps, logs and constructions built by humans.
Termite nests are formed in one of two places, in higher places like trees or in soil mounds beneath the ground. Nests can be found specifically in several areas:
- Ground Mounds
- Tree Nests
- Subterranean Nests (under ground and at tree bases)
- Pole Nests (found on human structures like telephone poles or on fence posts)
Cellulose in the form of wood, dead plants and even paper that is in contact with moist soil offers termites with a readily available source for food. There are some fairly basic steps to preventing damage to a home or other building and causing a great deal of monetary damage.
- Keep mulch levels (especially wood mulch) out from underneath the wooden parts of a structure.
- Keep wood mulch totally away from the foundation of a home or other structure.
- Make sure that dead trees, stumps, and roots near a structure are removed as quickly as possible.
- Be sure that wood debris and other boards are also removed from the area near the structure.
On a yearly basis, homes and other structures should be inspected for places and areas that may be ideal for termite colonies to thrive.
- Make sure that the foundation of the home can be seen and isn’t covered by debris. Be sure that wood and other cellulose material is kept away from the structure’s foundation.
- Make certain that the basement and crawl spaces are free of moisture and water.
- See that water is directed away from the structure and foundation.
Damages may occur to your house by these nasty pests. What is worse is the fact that if you leave these pests alone, they will multiply to even more. There are many do-it-yourself pest control products you can buy, but often times they do not work, or are toxic and are not safe to use around people and pets. If you have a termite problem, you may need to call your local Twin Cities pest control professionals.
