How to Prevent Termites from Invading
There are several steps homeowners can take to help deter termites and prevent infestations in Georgia homes:
- Eliminate any wood-to-soil contact around the foundation perimeter. Install barriers made of concrete, steel, or masonry to separate vulnerable wood framing and siding from the ground.
- Ensure proper drainage of rainwater away from your home's foundation. Slope soil so it flows away from the house and avoids pooling near the exterior walls and crawl spaces.
- Seal cracks, crevices, expansion joints, utility openings, and other potential entry points. Use caulk, concrete, metal flashing, steel wool, or weatherstripping to close gaps around pipes and wires.
- Apply a preventative termiticide soil treatment such as liquid imidacloprid or fipronil around the exterior foundation. Create a chemical perimeter barrier. Professionals can also spot treat high-risk areas.
- Where possible, replace wood structural components close to soil with termite-resistant materials like concrete, treated lumber, or metal. Use these materials for steps, posts, fences, landscape walls, and subflooring.
- Keep firewood stacks, leftover wood, tree stumps, fallen limbs, mulch, and other woody debris at least 20 feet away from your home's foundation.
- Schedule annual termite inspections during the swarming season to identify any infestations in the early stages before major damage occurs.
Taking preventative measures is key to keeping your biggest investment safe from destructive termites. Don't give them a chance - make your home as termite-proof as possible. Contact us about professional termite control services.
