May Home Improvement To Do: Termite Inspection and Prevention

The warmer months of spring and summer are a good time to check around and under your house for termites, since they’re more active and easier to spot. Termite damage, though, can be occur at any time, so grab a flashlight and head outside and into your basement or crawlspace to look for evidence of a termite infestation.

Look for damaged wood framing, termite tubes on exterior foundation walls, and the insects themselves. Pay particular attention to areas where wood meets the ground, such as around the foundation perimeter of your home where siding may contact soil or mulch.

To help prevent termites:

• Keep the foundation exposed around the entire perimeter of your house. Avoid piling mulch, soil, firewood, or anything else up against the sides of your home.
• Don’t store wood and cellulose-based materials (such as paper and cardboard) in a basement, crawlspace, or near your home’s foundation.
• Make sure your home has proper drainage.
• Keep your basement or crawlspace as dry as possible, since moisture creates a welcoming environment for termites.

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