Termites can be a big problem for homeowners, potentially destroying and damaging years of hard-earned work. It is important for homeowners and buyers to take preventative measures when wishing to prevent infestations of termites. Below are four great tips to help prevent and deal with termite infestations.

Placement of Wood

Homeowners should avoid placing wood near areas where termites could invade and should consider using plastic storage whenever available. Cardboard storage is often a big reason why termites might invade, so avoid placing cardboard boxes on the ground or near corners, particularly if the walls have wooden baseboards. Wherever possible, use treated wood for new buildings, structures and extensions. Termites are not great fans of wood with chemicals, so that should be a great deterrent against them intruding. Additionally, any wood outside should be placed sufficiently away from the house, as it is an easy way for termites to enter the house.

Using Bait

Using bait outside the house is a great way to prevent termites from entering by luring them to 'bait stations' across the garden or outside area. This is particularly useful when you have already spotted termites in the vicinity but can also be a great deterrent regardless. Bait stations, if properly installed, can potentially destroy the termites' nest, so professional help might be the most effective solution.

Termiticide

Termiticide repellent can be a great way to protect areas that have not already been infested with termites. This is great for new installations and can prevent outbreaks from spreading or deter them outright if no infestation is present.

If an infestation is already present, termiticide can be a great DIY solution to destroying the termite's nest by digging a trench around the infested area and spraying it with a foam-based termiticide. This termiticide is classed as a 'non-repellent', meaning that it is intended to attract termites into the sprayed area, to poison and kill them. This works great for small outbreaks, but when large infestations are occurring, it definitely helps to bring in the professionals.

Avoid Moisture

Something that encourages termites to invade your home is moisture. It is important to make sure water is diverted away from the home and that devices such as air conditioners are properly maintained and monitored, making sure that water damage and moisture is not inviting termites into the residence. Make sure that water of all sorts is either properly drained from your house or is at the very least stored away from the property.

For more information, contact termite treatment professionals.