Don’t let your one of your most valued possessions become a home to dry wood or subterranean termites. These pests cause millions of dollars of damage to San Francisco Bay area homes every year. For best practice, schedule a inspection with a trusted vendor every three years to learn if you are pest free or not. There is no need to get involved with quarterly visits, as most of those vendors do not guarantee they will eradicate the termites if found. If you have evidence of dry wood termites, tenting with Vikane gas is the best way to eradicate them. If you have subs, they need to be treated with chemical drilled down in the soil to keep them away. There are many popular chemical-free methods but they are not proven to eradicate the termites. Here are a few things you can do to make your house less appealing to wood eating bugs:
Eliminate Moisture Problems
• Repair leaking faucets, water pipes, and A/C units
• Divert water from foundation
• Keep gutters and downspouts clean
• Remove excessive plant cover and wood mulch
• Get rid of standing water on roof
• Keep all vents clear and open
• Seal entry points around water and utility lines or pipes
Remove Termite Food Sources
• Keep firewood, lumber or paper away from foundation or crawl space
• Get rid of stumps and debris near house
• Place screens on outside vents
• Check decks and wooden fences for damage
• Wood on your home shouldn’t contact the soil