How Do Termites Get in Attics?
Termites love attics for two reasons. Firstly, it is a great place to get free wood, and secondly, the attic is an ideal place to feed on rotting wood. Termites are attracted to moisture, and forage continuously for food.
If you see holes in the wood in your attic, or if you notice that there are bulges in your paint, you may have a termite problem. Depending on where you live, there are several different species of termites that can be present in your attic. These include the eastern subterranean termite, which is the most common.
Often, a termite infestation is hard to detect. In some cases, the damage to the wood is not even visible, and in other cases, the critters have become a resident in your attic.
The best way to know if you have a termite infestation is to call a local termite control professional. A termite inspector will inspect your home for termite colonies. If there is a problem, the termite specialist will take steps to eliminate the infestation.
One of the best ways to prevent a termite infestation is to ensure that the wood in your home is not in contact with the soil. This means that you should keep your siding, stucco, and other wood outside of the house at least six inches away from the ground. This also helps to prevent water accumulation near the foundation.
Lastly, you should have a trained pest control agency inspect your attic for termite damage. A termite control professional will also tell you whether you need to repair or replace damaged wood.