Termites are one of the most destructive pests that can invade your home. Termite infestations can cause significant damage to the structure of your home. This results in expensive repairs and a great deal of stress. If you are experiencing termite activity in your house, it is important to understand what is causing it.
The truth is that many homes are at risk of termite infestation. There are a variety of factors that can attract termites to your property. One of the most common causes of termite activity is the presence of rotting wood. This could be anything from a wooden deck or fence to old firewood or furniture. Moisture and warm temperatures are also highly attractive to termites. They can thrive in damp environments such as basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms.
If you are experiencing a termite infestation, it is essential to contact a termite pest control professional ASAP. A professional can assess the extent of the termite activity and recommend the most effective pest control measures.
They can eliminate the problem and prevent future infestations effectively. In addition to addressing the immediate issue, it is important to take steps to prevent future infestations. Remove sources of rotting wood and ensure your home is properly ventilated and free of excess moisture.
To learn more about what causes termites in the house and how to protect your home, read on!
Different Types of Home Invading Termites
Before we discuss what attracts termites to homes, it’s important to understand that there are different types of termites that can invade your property.
Knowing the different types of termites can help you identify the type of termite damage and take the necessary steps to control and prevent further damage.
Dampwood Termites
Firty, damp wood termites. These termites thrive in damp and decaying wood. They usually feed on wood that is in contact with the soil or on wood piles that have been left untreated. Dampwood termites can be found in areas with high humidity levels and are more common in coastal regions.
Drywood Termites
These termites live and feed on dry wood, such as structural lumber, flooring, and furniture. They do not require contact with the soil to survive and you can commonly spot them in warm and dry regions.
Drywood termites can cause significant damage to your home, and their infestations are often harder to detect.
Subterranean Termites
Lastly, the subterranean termites. These termites are the most common type of termite in the US. They live in underground colonies and travel through mud tubes to access their food source.
Subterranean termites feed on wood, paper, and other cellulose-based materials, and they can cause significant structural damage to your home.
Things Attracting Termites
Now that we are through with the different types of termites, let’s dive into what attracts termites to your home. There are various things that attract termites. Here are the top four things that attract termites:
- Wooden Structures or Cellulose Materials: Termites feed on cellulose, which is found in wood, paper, and other plant-based materials. If your home has a lot of wooden structures, such as decks, fences, or support beams, it can be a magnet for termites.
- Moisture or Damp Areas: Termites require moisture to survive. Damp areas in and around your home is where they usually stay. This could be anything from leaky pipes or faucets to water-damaged wood or humid basements.
- Warm Temperatures: Termites thrive in warm temperatures, and they are often more active during the spring and summer months. If your home is located in a warm and humid climate, it is more likely to attract termites.
- Darkness or Low Light Environments: Termites prefer dark and low light environments, which makes them difficult to detect. You can see them crawling in spaces, basements, and attics, as well as in the soil surrounding your home.
In addition, other factors that can attract termites to your home include the presence of other pests, such as ants or cockroaches, dead wood or trees near your home, and tree limbs or branches that touch your home’s foundation.
To prevent termite infestations, it is important to address these factors and take steps to make your home less attractive to termites. This includes repairing leaks, removing sources of moisture, and keeping your home well-ventilated and dry. Also, regular inspections by a pest control professional can help detect termite activity before it becomes a major problem.
Moisture Issues That Can Lead to Termite Infestations
As mentioned earlier, moisture is a significant factor that attracts termites to your home. Moist areas provide a conducive environment for termites to establish a colony and thrive. Here are some moisture issues that can lead to termite infestations and what you can do to prevent them:
Leaky Pipes
Leaky pipes can cause water damage and create damp conditions, which attract termites. Fixing any leaks in your home’s plumbing system is crucial in preventing termite infestations.
Improper Drainage
Also, poor drainage can cause water to accumulate near the foundation of your home, leading to moisture issues. Make sure your home’s gutter system is functioning correctly and directs water away from your home’s foundation. Ensure that the soil around your foundation slopes away from your home to prevent standing water.
Poor Airflow
Poor airflow can lead to stagnant air and high humidity levels, creating ideal conditions for termites. Proper ventilation can help prevent termite colony infestations. Thus, ensure that your attic, crawl space, and basement are well-ventilated.
In addition to these moisture issues, using softwood in construction can also attract termites. Softwood is more susceptible to termite damage than hardwood. Using hardwood in construction can help prevent termite infestations.
Moreover, preventing moisture issues in your home is key to preventing termite infestations. Thus, regularly inspect your home for any signs of moisture.
In addition, repairing any leaks and maintaining proper drainage and ventilation can help protect your home from termite damage. If you suspect a termite infestation, it is important to contact a pest control professional immediately.
The Bottom Line
Prevent termites from attacking your home by using hardwoods in construction. Inspect your home for moisture issues, and contact a pest control professional. In addition, taking preventative measures against termites can save you time and money in the long run!
If you are in Phoenix and other surround areas, feel free to contact us at Arizona Termite and Pest Solutions. As a top-rated pest control company, you are sure to receive timely and reliable service. We are here to help you protect your home from termites. Call now!
