Termites are among nature’s most destructive pests. They cause $40 billion in damage each year to agricultural and lumber interests, and another $5 billion to homeowners for termite prevention and residential damage repairs. Many affected homeowners will be out-of-pocket for their expenses, as most insurance policies don’t cover termite damage.
Long Island is home to the eastern subterranean termite, a species that will soon be swarming across the East End. During these swarms, thousands of young winged termites (alates) leave the nest to find a mate. After mating, they shed their wings and burrow to create a new nest.
How Do You Prevent Termites?
Termites are attracted to specific materials and conditions. They require water and cellulose – a substance in wood, paper, straw, and hemp products – to survive. If you reduce or remove the availability of moisture and cellulose, you will greatly reduce your risk of termite infestation.
Top Termite Prevention Tips
- Seal Potential Entry Points: Like other pests, termites take the path of least resistance. If you have any cracks, holes, or other openings in your home, termites easily find their way inside. Seal up these entry points with non-cellulose-based mortar or fillers, and cover vents and chimneys with insect exclusion netting during swarming season.
- Remove Water Sources: Inspect your home regularly for dampness and standing water. Repair leaky faucets and pipes; and check the perimeter of your home for sources of moisture. Eliminate damp areas around your foundation, and don’t forget to clean your gutters regularly, because overflow may create standing water that will attract termites and other pests. Inside your home, watch for areas of poor air circulation that may cause dampness, mold, or mildew. These also attract termites.
- Eliminate Outdoor Food Sources: Woodpiles, many types of mulch, and tree stumps are termite magnets. Once termites begin feasting on this banquet in your yard, it’s likely they will find their way into your home. Removing these items will decrease your risk. If you must use mulch, either use synthetic mulch or one made from materials that aren’t attractive to termites.
- Treat Wood: When building a home, addition, or deck, treat wood with a 0.1 percent permethrin solution added to paint, varnish, or sealant. If possible, use termite-resistant wood like black walnut, teak, Pacific yew, yellow cedar, or eastern red cedar. If feasible, add moisture barriers to your foundation, and never allow wood areas to be in direct contact with the ground.
- Use a Pesticide: There are many commercially available termiticides that are effective in repelling termites. Some natural alternatives with varying effectiveness include boric acid, nematodes, and orange oil.
What Keeps Termites Away?
The war against termites is never-ending and requires year-round vigilance. Even when you’ve done everything in your power to repel them, you may still find yourself with a termite problem. Your best ally against termites is a professional pest control company who can pinpoint the source of an infestation, eliminate existing termites, and help you prevent their return.
Twin Forks Pest Control® is Your Termite Prevention Expert
If you see termites in your home or on your property, Twin Forks Pest Control® is your Long Island pest removal specialist. Our team has protected Long Island residents from termites and other pest threats for more than two decades, and we look forward to making your home pest-free. Call us today for a free estimate.
