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Warm weather in Centralia means outdoor fun and sunny days for residents. But it also invites wood-destroying pests that can compromise your home’s structural integrity. Termites, carpenter ants, and beetles thrive when temperatures rise. So, homeowners must take action to protect their homes during the summer months. Pointe Pest Control is always available when called to inspect and treat a home. The company has been in the business since 2006. This explains why it has been the trusted provider for residents with pest issues in their homes. Part of the company’s approach is to educate homeowners about the steps they can take to keep their home safe against wood-destroying pests. These include the following:
Keeping Moisture Under Control
Damp wood allows termites and carpenter ants to establish colonies. These pests can take advantage of pipes, clogged gutters, or poor drainage in your home. Thus, you should repair leaks and make sure gutters direct water away from the foundation to reduce the risk of infestation. Also, you must keep crawl spaces dry. Using a dehumidifier in basements or attics can discourage pests from making these spaces their own.
Storing Firewood and Lumber Properly
Stacked firewood or leftover lumber can invite termites and beetles. Firewood should be stored at least 20 feet away from the house and raised off the ground if possible. If you have building materials or old wood lying around, keep them covered and away from your foundation.
Sealing Entry Points Around the House
Small cracks and gaps can be enough for carpenter ants or termites to find their way indoors. During the summer, inspect the foundation, siding, and roofline for vulnerabilities. Seal openings with caulk and replace damaged screens. Also, repair weather stripping around doors and windows. Decks and porches should be checked for loose boards or cracks.
Maintaining Landscaping and Outdoor Areas
The area around your home can either help protect your property or invite pests closer. Overgrown shrubs and piles of leaves create moist, shaded spaces where wood-destroying insects thrive. Also, you should pay attention to mulch pressed against the siding. Keep bushes and tree branches trimmed back from the house. Do not let mulch touch the foundation. Regularly clearing debris from the yard keeps your outdoor space tidy and removes the kind of environment termites and ants look for.
Scheduling Professional Inspections
Termites can stay hidden until they have caused significant damage to structures. Scheduling inspections gives you peace of mind and allows trained specialists to catch problems early. A professional eye can detect signs most homeowners miss. Also, timely treatment saves you money and stress in the long run.
Using Treated Wood for Outdoor Projects
Treated wood is a safer choice than untreated lumber. Pressure-treated wood resists pests and moisture better. This gives termites and carpenter ants fewer opportunities to attack. If you already have untreated wood in place, consider sealing it with a protective stain or paint to create a barrier against infestation.
Reducing Clutter in Crawl Spaces and Basements
Wood-destroying pests thrive in dark, cluttered spaces. They can be drawn to piles of cardboard, scrap wood, or old furniture in basements and crawl spaces. Clearing out these areas reduces hiding spots and food sources. Also, keeping them tidy makes it easier to notice early warning signs like frass or damaged wood.
Inspecting Wooden Furniture and Stored Items
Termites and beetles can damage wooden furniture, picture frames, and stored boxes. Inspect stored belongings for signs of gnawing or holes. Use plastic containers to protect valuables and keep pests from spreading.
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