Termites are among the smallest pests out there, and yet they can cause some of the biggest damage to your home. As such, you need to be prepared and have a proactive approach to keeping termites out of your home in the first place. This will prevent thousands of dollars of potential damage to your property and give you peace of mind that your home is pest-free. There are a lot of ways to be proactive when it comes to pest control, but here are some of the best tips for termite prevention.
Know Your Enemy
If you are going to keep your home protected from these pests, you have to know what you are dealing with. Arizona is known to have four types of termites:
-Desert subterranean termites
-Arid-land subterranean termites
–Western drywood termites
-Desert dampwood termites
The most prevalent species found in Surprise, Arizona and the greater Phoenix area is the desert subterranean termite. The small size of these termites, combined with their unique ability to forage even in dry conditions, makes them a serious danger to residents. They can often occupy spaces that might not be accessible to other types of termites in Surprise AZ. Plus, they will freely attempt to make a nest in dry, sound wood because they don’t depend on moisture and rot as much as other species.
Prevention Tips
1. Have termite inspections done at least once per year. Whether or not you’ve had a problem before, you could develop an infestation at any time. Proper inspections will help you identify early warning signs and keep your home protected.
2. Make sure that you choose a pest control professional that understands the climate of the Phoenix area and the type of termites found in Surprise, as well as how to prevent them. There are a number of treatments and systems used for prevention, and a local pro should be able to help you find the right solution.
3. Remove any access termites may have. Use caulk to seal gaps and holes in and around your home, including those that are pin hole-sized. These little pests don’t need much room at all to get into your home. Subterranean termites also utilize wood-to-ground contact as an access point, so reduce the amount of wood you have near the ground of your home, including mulch and landscaping.
Call the Pros
It’s easier to prevent termites than it is to treat them and remove an infestation. Plus, if they can’t get in, they can’t damage your home in the first place. Call a professional to discuss your needs for termite prevention and find the best solutions for your Surprise, Arizona home.