How to Protect Your Home From Termites

Control moisture around your home

Repair plumbing and roof leaks promptly. Keep gutters and downspouts clear, and make sure drainage carries water away from the foundation. Crawlspaces and other substructures should be ventilated and kept as dry as practical. These steps reduce excess moisture that can contribute to termite risk, especially for subterranean termites.

Keep structural wood separated from soil

Check areas where siding, porch supports, steps, or other structural wood meet the ground. Keep the required clearance between soil and building wood, and avoid covering foundation areas in ways that hide signs of termite activity. For construction or repair work, follow local building requirements and use appropriate materials where wood must contact soil.

Maintain exposed wood and exterior openings

Repair damaged exterior wood and maintain paint or sealant on exposed wood surfaces. Repair foundation cracks and gaps around utility lines where appropriate. These measures help maintain the building envelope; they don’t guarantee that termites can’t enter.

Reduce nearby wood debris

Keep wood piles, untreated fence posts, and buried scrap wood away from the structure. For more on reducing wood and other termite attractants around the property, see Killroy’s guide to limiting termite food sources.

Schedule an inspection when you find warning signs

Mud tubes, discarded wings, pellets, or damaged wood are reasons to investigate. They don’t all prove an active infestation, so ask a professional to assess what you found. Read more about signs of a possible termite infestation or what inspectors look for. For help assessing your property, contact Killroy about a termite inspection.