What is the worst thing that could happen to your Tampa home? A flood? A fire? What about a tornado running through the area? We would argue that termite damage is one of the worst things that could happen. Why? Because it is one of the few things that is not covered in homeowners insurance. If a fire destroys your home, you get a big payout. The same is true for "acts of God." The same is not true for termite damage because termite damage is considered a “preventable disaster.” This means if you do not take the necessary steps to prevent these pests, you will be liable for the full cost of repair which sometimes amounts to tens of thousands of dollars. To make sure this never happens to you, here is everything you need to know to protect your Tampa home from destructive termites.
The Most Common Species of Termites In Tampa
There are a few different species of termites that live in Tampa but none are as common as the subterranean termite. These invasive pests build their nests underground around properties and invade homes through tunnels, some underground, others running up the foundation of homes. One thing that makes subterranean termites a huge problem is how quietly they invade and destroy wood. It is not uncommon for infestations to go unnoticed for months or even years.
Termite Swarmers
Once a year, usually during the spring and summer months, fully mature colonies of termites produce swarmers. During this time, winged reproductive termites (swarmers) are released from nests and sent out to find new areas to build colonies and gather food. Identify these pests by their ant-like bodies and long oval wings that extend past their hind sections. Noticing swarmers outside your home is a good sign that your property is under observation. If gatherable wood is found, these pests will build a nest nearby and start looking for ways to invade. Seeing swarmers inside your home is a more concerning sign as it most likely means your home is already infested.
The Best Strategies To Prevent Termites
You do not have to lift a finger to prevent termites around your home, however, if you want to take some actions on your own, there are some things you can do. Here are some great strategies to reduce your chances of a termite infestation here in Tampa Bay.
- Use a caulking gun or some liquid cement to fill in holes, gaps, and cracks in your home’s exterior foundation.
- Address damage to window/door screens, weatherstripping, and door sweeps.
- Store firewood and untreated lumber at least 30 feet from your home’s exterior.
- Make sure there is a non-wood barrier between the soil around your home and your home’s structural wood.
- Repair or replace structural wood around your home that is water damaged, rotting, or in decay.
- Remove sticks, leaf piles, and other organic clutter from your property.
- Pull dead stumps out of your yard and remove fallen trees from your yard.
- Make sure your gutters are in good working order and properly channeling water away from your home’s exterior.
- Repair leaky piping and fixtures in and around your home.
- Eliminate sources of water build-up around your property.
What To Do To Make Sure Termites Stay Away
Termites invade and destroy homes quietly. For this reason, it is important that you have your home inspected for these pests by professionals. At EcoTech Pest Control Services, we offer detailed inspections for termites as well as long-term elimination and prevention services. Contact us today to find out more about your options and schedule an appointment for your Tampa Bay property.