Can You Prevent Termites in Existing Homes?

Are Termite Infestations More Likely in Older Homes?

They can be. However, it’s important to understand that if you own a home, it doesn’t matter if it’s new or old. Termites will be happy so long as they have access to the staple of their diet: cellulose. And if your house has wood as a building material, it does have cellulose.

Older homes are at slightly greater risk for termite infestation for a few reasons:

• Foundation issues that leave open spaces for termites to enter and begin their destruction
• Leftover or forgotten wood from renovation projects, or sources of decaying wood
• Improper drainage or sources of standing water inside or outside the home
• Leaky pipes or broken faucets contribute to water issues
• Ventilation issues leading to a humid, moist environment

Can You Prevent Termites with DIY Techniques?

Yes, there are a few easy things to do around the house that will dramatically reduce your risk of getting a termite infestation. Here’s what we recommend:

• Eliminate sources of standing water in or near the home as well as any moisture problems, such as a leaky faucet or broken water pipe.
• Ensure your yard has good drainage and avoid excess mulch. 
• Clean out gutters regularly.
• Try to eliminate areas where wood is in contact with soil.
• Keep piles of lumber or firewood away from the foundation of your home and get rid of decaying lumber.
• Regularly inspect your deck, patio, or outdoor furniture for signs of termite damage. Think of these as early warning signs.
• Remove dead trees and branches from areas surrounding your yard.

How Do Termites Survive?

Preventing termites from spreading requires you to understand what exactly enables them to survive and thrive. After you’ve discovered termites in your home and called a professional, the next step is to take every possible step to remove possible termite attractants in or near your home. The three things most termites need to survive are:

1. Wood/Cellulose: Termites feed on any material that contains cellulose, which is why wood is their primary source of food.
2. Water: Termites seek out moist or humid areas. Any environment with excess water or humidity is ideal for them.
3. Soil: Except for drywood termites, most types require constant contact with soil to survive.

Annual Inspections to Prevent Termites

Regular termite inspections are necessary for a home of any age. If you have an older home that has been treated for a termite infestation in the past, it’s smart to get routine professional inspections so they can spot any early warning signs before they turn into a full-blown infestation.

Preventing Termites in Homes

No matter how new or old your home is, proper termite prevention is important for all property owners. Termite prevention is effective, saves money in the long run, and it’s super-easy when you can get help from your trusted termite control company. 

Call us today to learn more!