Say Hello to Termite Season

Say hello to termite breeding season.  That’s right, with the beginning of the new year we also begin the time of year where termite activity increases.  According to the US Department of Agriculture, over $750 million in damage is caused by termites each year.  That’s a lot of bugs. The good news is there are some easy things homeowners can do to help avoid these costly pests.

According to the Arizona Structural Pest Control Commission, the most common termite in Arizona is the subterranean termite.  Therefore, a good barrier between the ground and the wood in our homes is extremely important.  Here is a list of things that homeowners should look for (source: Arizona Structural Pest Control Commission).  Although this list is not all inclusive, it will give you a good place to start.

1. Cracks in foundation walls.  It only takes a crack 1/32 of an inch wide to give termites and other wood destroying insects hidden access to a house.
2. Leaking pipes and faucets.  Termites as well as other insects, seek out moisture for survival. Leaking pipes can keep wood and soil continually damp and create a perfect home for termites.
3. Wood debris around and under a house.  Pieces of scrap lumber or firewood kept next to a structure can support a colony of termites.
4. Sprinkler systems or bubblers placed near the outside wall of a structure.  Excessive watering can dilute pesticide treatments around foundation walls.
5. Flower planters. Planters allow hidden and direct access to unprotected siding and cracked stucco when built in direct contact with a house.
6. Trellises and wooden fences.  If a trellis or wood fence touches soil and is in contact with a structure, it provides a direct link between the subterranean termites in the soil and wood in the structure.

All of these conditions are things that termites and termite inspectors look for, and so should the homeowner.  By eliminating these conditions, you can reduce the risk of infestation.  However, it is important to remember that all homes are at risk to termite infestation, even masonry structures.  See MPEG movie of termites (Source: Arizona Structural Pest Control Commission)

If you have any concerns, be sure to call a professional to check it out before that termite takes a bite out of your house and your wallet.