There is a common misconception that termites are only interested in ingesting wood homes. The bad news is that, given the right conditions, termites can infest non-wood homes as well. This puts brick homes, stone homes, and other types of buildings at risk of termites. Because of this, it’s important to learn what may be attracting termites to your property in the first place.
This Termite Awareness Week, the team at Western Exterminator, formerly Pratt Pest is here to share all you need to know about what may put your home at risk for termites in the Pacific Northwest.
Top 6 Termite Risks
No matter what type of home you have, the following may make your home more attractive to termites.
- Moisture. Leaky pipes, broken sprinklers, or clogged gutters can all lead to moisture problems in your home. In turn, this could attract subterranean termites (not to mention hoards of other pests) inside.
- Access to soil. Subterranean termites need contact with soil to live. Any wood items, whether it’s your home, porch, or firewood in the yard, in contact with soil is at risk for a termite problem.
- Cellulose. Termites may be infamous for infesting wood, but they’re actually after the cellulose contained within! This cellulose is the main component that can be found in wallpaper, plants, mulch, drywall, and more.
- Warmth. Termite problems are generally more common in warmer, humid parts of the world. This puts our rainy state at a higher risk of termite activity.
- Decaying wood. If you have logs, trees, or stumps that are rotten or in decay, you can be sure termites will seek them out.
- Landscape. Termites can infest mulch, making it important to keep it away from the perimeter of your home. Also, trim back tree branches that may be too close to your property.
Prevent the Risk of Termites in Washington
If you’re unsure whether or not your home is at risk for termites, it’s best to team up with your local termite control experts. At Western Exterminator, we will thoroughly inspect your property to pinpoint any vulnerabilities that could cause an infestation down the road. Contact us to get started today!