There are two common termite species that are highly active in Florida, the subterranean and drywood termite. Both termite species can cause extensive damage to your home by eating wood from the inside out, destroying the structural integrity of your home. To enhance the termite control that’s around your home, every homeowner should look to use preventative measures throughout their property to have peace of mind that your home is protected against termites. We break down 3 DIY termite prevention methods you can use to avoid termites.
DIY Termite Prevention Tips
Remove Standing Water
Subterranean termites need water to survive and are looking for moist wood to infest and build their colony. Excessive moisture can become a real issue and attract termites right into your home. It’s important to remove excessive moisture inside and outside of the home. Remove standing water by:
- Inspecting your home for any leaky pipes or faucets and repairing them as soon as possible.
- Removing leaves, twigs, and debris in your gutters to ensure they don’t clog and create drainage issues.
- Making sure that all drains are directed away from the home.
Store & Remove Lumber Properly
Drywood termites build their nests inside the wood they are infesting. These termites do not need contact with the soil and require less moisture than the subterranean termites. Drywood termites are seeking wood to inhabit, so it’s crucial to make wood elements in your home less attractive to them. Protect your home from drywood termites by:
- Removing old trees, lumber, or tree stumps from your property.
- Storing wood or lumber at least 20 feet from your home and elevating it off the ground.
- Trimming back shrubs, bushes and dense greenery to ensure they aren’t touching your home.
Maintain Proper Ventilation
If your crawlspace is not properly insulated to protect against Florida’s humidity, the vapor can cause wood decay, which is the perfect breeding ground for termites. With proper ventilation, it will keep your crawlspace dry and reduce the chance of a future termite infestation. Keep termites out of your crawlspace by:
- Enclosing your crawlspace to help with excessive moisture to prevent termites and other household pests.
- Utilizing a dehumidifier in your crawlspace and basement to decrease moisture levels.
- Considering the use of a fan or installing a vent to permit air movement through the crawlspace.
If you’ve taken termite precautions but are still looking for extra protection, consider calling an Ocala pest control company near you for support! These professionals will provide you with a termite inspection, customized termite control plan, and recommendations for termite prevention to avoid future infestations.
