Purdue University's Department of Entomology reports that termites require both wood and soil to survive, which is why you'll typically find them within structural wood or foundation walls that sit directly up against the soil. Unfortunately, these tiny insects can do a great deal of damage to your home. It is important to regularly monitor your home for termites and implement residential pest control strategies immediately after discovering them. Below are a few tips that will help you deal with these unwanted visitors.
Tip #1: Properly Identify the Termites
In order to obtain complete termite control, you'll need to properly identify the termites that are infesting your foundation. The National Pesticide Information Center lists damp wood, drywood, and subterranean as the three different types of termites that could wreak havoc on your home. The organization also points out that there are a few ant species that resemble termites. In order to create a method of attack, you'll want to contact a professional pest control expert who can let you know exactly what insect you're dealing with.
Tip #2: Know Your State Regulations
Each state has their own regulations when it comes to a treatment plan for getting rid of the termites. For example, North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension's Department of Entomology outlines several North Carolina specific regulations in addition to the traditional "trench and treat" program. In this area of the country, homeowners must also drill and treat any concrete slabs that are affixed to the home, any empty spaces found within the home's foundation walls that are within 4 feet of where the termites where seen, and any side walls along an earth-filled porch that is up to 3 feet from the foundation of the home.
Tip #3: Install a Barrier
Once you've successfully eliminated all of the termites, you can create a barrier that will keep your home from becoming re-infested in the future. The University of Arizona Cooperative Extension has a few suggestions for homeowners. On the more expensive end, couples can install a copper termite shield around the top of their foundation. An option that is a little more affordable would be to place a stainless steel mesh within the stem walls of the foundation of the home. Finally, the institute of higher learning states that a 4 to 6-inch layer of 16 grid sand spread out under the foundational concrete is also a method one can use to deter termites.
For more information, talk to a company like Mr. Bug Killer Inc.
Share2 August 2017
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