Termites can be found just about everywhere in the continental U.S., and Massachusetts (home to the Eastern subterranean termite) is no exception. While most people are familiar with termites and know these pests can cause a lot of property damage, what attracts termites is not exactly common knowledge. This can lead many to unwittingly “invite” these pests to their property.

5 THINGS THAT ATTRACT TERMITES

Rather than treating a termite infestation, the ideal scenario is to avoid a termite problem in the first place. Below, our Boston termite control experts will explain some of the ways your home could be attracting termites without you realizing it.

1. Clogged Gutters and Other Drainage Issues

When your gutters are full of leaves and branches, a couple of things happen:

The debris clogging your gutters starts to rot in standing water, which is very enticing to termites.
Water can start overflowing and spilling out against your home, making the roof, siding, and foundation soggy. Soft, wet wood is typical food for termites, so this can invite the pests to start chewing away at your home.

If you have any source of drainage problems around your home, whether it’s from a sprinkler system or an air conditioning unit, you’ll want to solve the problem to avoid attracting termites and other pests as well.

2. Rotting Wood Around Your Property

As mentioned above, rotting wood is a major food source for termites, so it’s bound to attract them. Once the weather warms up in spring, termites will begin swarming in search of mates and new places to start colonies. Before “swarming season,” it’s a good idea to get rid of any stumps in your yard and clear out fallen branches and twigs.

3. Mistakes With Mulch

Because mulch helps keep moisture in your garden beds, it can get quite damp, creating an attractive environment for termites. When it comes to mulch, the material doesn’t matter as much as the thickness and application.

Here are some tips to avoid attracting termites with mulch:

Your mulch layers should be less than three inches deep.
Apply a new mulch layer every three years.
Make sure your mulch is no less than six inches away from where your home’s foundation meets the siding.

4. Lumber Stored Too Close to Home

Even though it’s convenient to keep firewood on the porch, it’s one of the easiest ways to bring on a termite infestation. Instead, store your woodpile at least 30 feet away from your home, and make sure that it’s at least 5 inches off the ground.

5. Dense Vegetation and Garden Debris

Whenever possible, remove dense vegetation and garden debris near your home and other structures on your property. Things like shrubs, vines, tree lines, and fallen leaves left to rot will trap moisture and make it difficult to inspect your home for termites. They also create favorable conditions for wood decay.

If you suspect your home may have a termite infestation, don’t hesitate to contact our Boston termite control experts at Pestex Inc to inspect your property thoroughly. Call us today at (617) 544-2566 or contact us online