Many homeowners in Buffalo Grove may have to deal with termites at any time of the year. These pests may use landscaping features and water sources around a property to get closer to a house. Professional treatments are critical to control termites, but good landscaping practices and moisture management can reduce the risk of an infestation. Pointe Pest Control usually addresses outdoor features when dealing with termites in and around homes. They customize treatments based on the types of termites to handle and the seriousness of the infestation. The company also sets up barriers around the property to prevent future infestations.
The design of a yard can influence termite activity. Termites are attracted to mulch beds, dense shrubbery, and wood features. They feed on cellulose-rich materials like wood and paper, which can be accessible from landscaping.
Mulch and Termite Risks
Mulch is popular for flower beds and garden spaces. However, it also retains moisture and provides shelter for termites. Mulch doesn’t always attract termites directly, but its damp environment encourages them to forage nearby. Keeping mulch at least a foot away from the foundation and using gravel or rubber mulch near the house can lower the risk.
Firewood and Outdoor Wood Features
Termite activity can be encouraged when firewood piles, wooden planters, and untreated fencing are placed too close to the home. Termites feed on these materials and then migrate into the structure. Firewood should always be stored off the ground and at least 20 feet away from the house. Outdoor wooden features should be sealed, treated, or replaced with termite-resistant materials like composite or stone.
Proper Drainage Around the Home
Poor drainage can cause moisture buildup. Termites thrive in damp soil. Gutters clogged with leaves and downspouts that drain too close to the foundation can create wet conditions that attract termites. Ensuring that water drains away from the house helps keep the soil dry and less appealing to pests.
Soil-to-Wood Contact Problems
Any wood that touches soil gives termites direct access to a food source and a pathway into the home. Targets usually target deck posts, wooden siding, or untreated fences. Installing concrete bases for deck supports and trimming siding so it doesn’t touch the ground helps block such entry points. Also, it is important to keep wood structures elevated.
Landscaping Plants and Airflow
Moisture can be trapped because of dense bushes, vines, and groundcover close to the foundation, limiting airflow. This creates an environment that allows soil to stay damp for longer periods. Trimming plants regularly and leaving a gap between landscaping and the foundation promotes better airflow and keeps the soil drier.
Irrigation Systems and Termites
Sprinklers and irrigation systems that saturate soil near the foundation increase the risk of termites. Watering the lawn too frequently keeps the soil damp, which can draw termites closer. Adjusting sprinkler heads to direct water away from the house creates a less termite-friendly yard.
Crawl Spaces and Ventilation
Poor ventilation and excess moisture in crawlspaces make these areas nesting spots for termites. Installing vapor barriers and improving airflow helps reduce humidity. Also, leaks must be repaired promptly.
Grading the Landscape
The slope of a yard directs how water flows after rain. Water collects around the foundation and creates ideal conditions for termites if the ground slopes toward the house. Adjusting the grading to ensure water flows away reduces moisture levels near the home. In some cases, adding French drains or sump pumps may be necessary for more serious drainage issues.
Moisture From Outdoor Fixtures
Termites can exploit damp spots that can result from leaky hoses, dripping faucets, and poorly maintained air conditioning units. Checking outdoor fixtures regularly and fixing leaks helps remove these sources of excess moisture.