How to Prevent Termites From Invading Your Home
In most cases, you cannot eliminate termites from your home. However, you can prevent their spread. You can also take steps to treat any existing infestations.
The first step is to check for termites. If you notice blisters, cracks or holes on the walls or other areas of your home, you may have a termite colony. It is a good idea to call a pest control company to come inspect.
You can prevent termites by removing things that attract them. Avoid wood debris, cellulose materials, cellulose-based materials and compost. If you have landscaping mulch, make sure it is cellulose-free.
To treat an infestation, you can use boric acid. It is a common pest control product and is known by several names, including sodium borate. Boric acid dries out termites and shuts their nervous systems. You can buy boric acid in powder form or as a spray.
Another effective way to kill termites is to sprinkle diatomaceous earth over the affected area. The abrasive surface cuts the outer shell of the termite. It also dries out the termite and causes them to dehydrate.
Neem oil is another natural termite killer. The neemene compound, which is in neem oil, takes effect once the termites ingest it. You can purchase nematodes from a specialty store. These worms are very efficient at killing termites.
One of the best ways to prevent termites from invading your home is to clean your gutters. Having a clogged gutter can cause water to collect near your foundation and create a perfect environment for termites to thrive.