What Attracts Termites? 4 Things to Consider

It’s a distinction that none of us are proud of. Tampa is one of the top ten cities in America with a termite problem. Those of us that own homes in the Tampa Bay area need to be on guard for these home destroying pests. 

By knowing what attracts termites, we can better protect our homes. So keep reading to learn what around your home may be making you more susceptible to a termite invasion. 

1. Woodpiles 

If you have piles of wood or landscaping brush on your property, then you’ve created the perfect den for termites. The closer these piles are to your home, the greater the attraction. 

Keep any stored wood at least 20 feet from your home. If possible, raise it at least five inches above the ground. 

2. Clogged Drains 

When was the last time you climbed up a ladder and cleared your gutters? If you can’t remember, then they’re probably full of leaves and other debris. This creates the perfect nesting spot for termites. 

Those clogged gutters will create pooling water since it can no longer flow down and out the drain spout. Keeping your gutters clean will remove their protective cover and encourage water to flow away from your home. 

3. Old or Rotting Wood 

This is a termite favorite. If you have an old tree stump in your yard, you have a beacon calling termites to your home.

This rotting wood will bring the termites, and from there, they’ll venture to your home for more. Inspect your tree stump to determine if it’s normal wood rot or termite damage. 

Mulch 

While it isn’t technically rotting wood, it’s a low pile of wood chippings that eventually decay. It can be a fuel source for termites. 

Plus, its whole purpose is to retain water for your flower beds. But this excess moisture will also attract termites. 

If you want to use mulch in your landscaping, it’s best to keep it at least 15 inches from your foundation. If this isn’t possible, monitor your foundation for termite activity.

Be sure to look beyond the surface since termites tend to burrow. It can help to have a pest control service spray around your home to prevent termites from entering. 

4. Large Trees 

Trees that brush up against your house give termites a walkway in the sky that leads right into your home. Before you know it, you’ve got a termite infestation that started in your attic and spread down throughout your home. 

Trim any tree branches that touch or hang over your home. This will prevent termites from traveling from the tree to your home. It will also help keep your home dry. 

Large tree branches can block the sunlight, which will slow the evaporation process. This leads to a buildup of moisture in your home. 

Arm Yourself and Know What Attracts Termites

By knowing what attracts termites, you can keep your home free of these conditions. This will reduce your home’s attractiveness to termites. 

For total protection, you should have your home routinely treated and inspected for termite activity. 

Contact us today and let us help you prevent termites from taking over your home.