Termites are a serious problem in Florida. The termites most often encountered in Florida include the Eastern subterranean termite and the dry-wood termite. Formosan subterranean termites are less common but have been found in several parts of the state including Tampa, Orlando, Pensacola, Tallahassee, Miami, Jacksonville, and many places in between.
Both Eastern and Formosan subterranean termites can cause significant damage to homes and other structures. They attack and damage any building material that contains cellulose, such as the wood used in house and building construction. This activity often goes unnoticed until considerable damage becomes visible. The cost of repairs can be substantial. Here are 3 important ways you can prevent termites.
Inspections vital to termite prevention
Walk around the outside of your house every couple of months. Inspect wooden doors, window frames and moldings for changes in appearance such as blistered paint or soft spots that might indicate termite damage. Also inspect foundation walls for small mud tubes. Call your pest control company immediately if you see problems. Also ask your pest control company for an annual termite inspection.
Don't provide termites with an easy way into the house
Don't allow wood such as firewood, scrap lumber, fencing and planter boxes, to come into contact with the outside of your house. Don't store firewood in the garage. Make sure your siding (except masonry and brick) is at least 6 - 8 inches above soil level. Otherwise talk to your pest control company to find a way to prevent termites from using that problem to enter your home. Make sure that any mulch does not come into contact with the siding.
Prevent moisture problems to help prevent termites
Moist wood attracts termites. Termite prevention means making sure water from any irrigation doesn't contact outside your walls or foundation. The same goes for all air conditioner condensation - keep that moisture away from the outside walls and foundation. Repair indoor leaks and roof leaks immediately. Moist wood in the roof, attic, walls, bathroom, and sink areas can attract termites and cause major problems. Check your gutters and downspouts and repair problems immediately.
Subterranean termites are widespread throughout Florida. Because they are so common, termite prevention methods alone may not always protect your home from infestation. If you believe your home has become infested, additional action must be taken to prevent serious damage. Fortunately there are methods of control and eradication that will protect your home from termites. Over the past few years, the number of subterranean termite treatment methods has increased dramatically.
If you live near Tampa, contact Florida Bug Inspectors to set up an annual termite inspection, or to explore your termite treatment options. Russ Frank, the owner of FBI, has been helping Tampa families prevent and solve termite problems for more than 25 years.
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