Could You Be Attracting Termites to Your Home?

The warmer weather brings us outside to take care of all those outdoor tasks we weren’t able to do during the cold winter months. This is the perfect time of year to take care of them, especially in this part of the country because it isn’t too hot yet and it’s not too cold. One of the first items on the to-do list is the landscaping. I love planting new flowers and sprucing up the flowerbeds brightening up the exterior of my home. However, did you know that using mulch too close to your home’s foundation could attract termites? Check out these things around your home that could be inviting termites to come on over:

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  • As I mentioned, mulch can attract termites because it offers a two-for-one for them. The mulch serves as a source of food and it retains moisture, which they love. It is best to keep it just over a foot away from the foundation. If you already have mulch and don’t want to change your flowerbeds completely, it is recommended to make routine checks for termite activity. These checks include looking below the surface.
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  • Firewood is another big attractor of termites. Now, that the winter is over, consider moving the wood at least 20 feet away from your home and to store it at least 5 inches off the ground.
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  • Here is one more reason to clean those gutters this spring. In addition to helping save your roof and the fascia of your home, cleaning the gutters will help save it from a termite infestation. If gutters are clogged, they cause water to pool making insulation vulnerable to termites giving them a point of entry into your home.
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  • Trim trees and shrubs away from your home’s exterior. It is recommended that you consult with a landscape specialist for the appropriate time to trim trees and shrubs to avoid ruining your landscaping. They all vary on the best time to trim; your main goal is to make it a routine at the appropriate time.

In addition to doing self-maintenance items around your home, contact Terminator Termite and Pest Control at 479.783.6200 to schedule a consultation and to get set up on a yearly maintenance plan.