Termite infestation is likely the last thing on your mind these days. Throughout 2021, the real estate market has continued to skyrocket with demand across the United States. In the Austin, Texas area, the housing market has seen substantial growth with an influx of California residents looking to make the Lone Star state their home.
Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, many homebuyers are purchasing their homes sight unseen; a climate ripe for hidden challenges and unforeseen conditions. Nevertheless, pests, such as termites, may be lurking in the hidden nooks and crannies of many of these homes. At BrockStar Pest Services, we are all too familiar with these annoying pests and how to rid your new home of these unwanted roommates. Read on for these insights and how to protect your new home from termites.
TIP #1 – Moisture Reduction near the Foundation
Although it may be impossible to control the moisture around your home, most termites find entry points in moist soil next to the foundation. Water should be diverted away from the foundation to prevent these constant moisture pockets from creating an infestation haven for termites. Something to consider is analyzing the lawn sprinkler system, irrigation, gutters, and downspouts around the perimeter of your home. Drainage should be positioned away from the house to prevent water from pooling and causing termite infestation.
TIP #2 – Firewood Storage can be Ripe for Termite Infestation
Throughout 2020 and 2021, unprecedented historical events have happened including a worldwide pandemic and a freak snowstorm that left much of Texas — including the Austin area — without power. For many Austinites, this meant boiling water and huddling next to a fire-burning stove. Now, going into the fall, preparation for winter is underway. And if there is anything 2021 has taught us, expect the unexpected.
As you begin to store firewood, the professionals from BrockStar Pest Services recommend avoiding stacking firewood against foundations or inside crawl spaces. Termites like to party. They source a party location (woodpile) and then invite all of their friends and family to join. Termites survive and thrive in large piles of firewood, lumber, cardboard boxes and even newspapers. Take our word for it. You don’t want their next family reunion to be anywhere near the foundation of your home. Be strategic with your firewood storage and keep it at least 20 feet away from your home and raised at least 6-8 inches off the ground.
TIP #3 – Eradicating Termite Infestation: Eliminate Dead Trees, Rotting Wood, and Shrubbery
Throughout Austin, Dripping Springs, Round Rock, and the surrounding area, many homeowners have one thing in common, (in addition to the love of backyard BBQ), tidy yards and beautiful landscaping. If a home hasn’t been kept up with or is overgrown from the summer season, Austin-area homeowners may have an abundance of plants growing around their homes.
Some plants provide a pathway for termites and camouflage termite parties happening around your wood siding or near the exterior of your home. Vines, ivy, and other dense plants that may be in contact with the house may be an open invitation to a family of termites, welcoming them directly into your home. In addition, overgrowth, stumps, and dead roots can also be attractive termite food sources. It is ideal to keep all shrubbery, vines, and trees trimmed around your yard, allowing at least a foot between the plant and the exterior wall of your home. When practical, various shrubbery or wood debris should be removed or abated as best as possible to prevent termite infestation.
Contact a Professional Pest Control Company located in Austin, Texas
If you’re facing a major termite infestation, it’s best to contact the professionals at BrockStar Pest Control to help with mitigating the problem. Our Termite Terminator, Brock Anderson, can quickly assess the termite entry points that are immediately apparent. Brock can also help detect other potential issues, and put you on a regular maintenance program to keep termites from finding their way into your home. Contact BrockStar Pest Services, today by calling 512-800-0437, or visiting this link.
