It’s a common misconception that termites only feed on wooden houses. But that’s not true! These tiny bugs are always looking for cellulose, which is found in wood and other materials. This means even brick houses aren’t safe from termite trouble.
In North Carolina, they’re active all year round, understandably making them a constant worry for homeowners. At Bug Out, we’re the termite experts in North Carolina. We want to help you understand how these pests can threaten your home, no matter what it’s made of. That’s why we put together this guide.
Which Termites Threaten North Carolina Homes?
Termites are a serious problem for homeowners in North Carolina, with their damages costing Americans about $5 billion every year. In North Carolina, we deal with two main types of termites:
- Drywood termites: These pests live entirely in the wood they’re eating.
- Eastern subterranean termites: These termites build underground nests and travel through mud tubes to reach your home.
Both types can cause serious damage if left unchecked. These pests work non-stop, all year round, putting your home at constant risk.
What Attracts These Termites?
- Hidden wood: Even brick houses have wooden parts inside, like floors, furniture, and support beams.
- Moisture problems: Termites love damp areas, which can exist in any type of home.
- Outdoor attractions: Things like woodpiles, wooden decks, or tree stumps near your house can draw termites close.
- Tiny entry points: Termites can squeeze through the smallest cracks in your home’s foundation.
3 Major Termite Attractants in Your Home
Termites are always on the lookout for new places to nest and infest. Here are the top three things that make your home appealing to these destructive pests:
1. Moisture Problems
Termites, especially subterranean ones, love damp areas. They’re drawn to wet soil and standing water around your home. To keep termites away, fix any leaks quickly. Make sure your sprinklers, downspouts, and gutters are working properly. By keeping things dry, you’ll make your home less inviting to termites.
2. Foundation Cracks
Termites are experts at finding weak spots in your home’s structure. Even small cracks in your foundation can be an open door for termites. They use these cracks to build mud tubes and get inside. It doesn’t matter if your house is made of wood or brick – termites can still find a way in. Regularly check your home’s foundation and fix any cracks you find. This will help protect against termites and other pests too.
3. Wood Touching the Ground
Termites love wood, and any wood that touches the soil around your home is at risk. This includes decks, fences, and even wooden siding. To protect your home, keep firewood off the ground and away from your house. Remove old logs or tree stumps from your yard. Be careful with mulch, as it can attract termites. Also, trim your trees so branches don’t touch your house.
Protect Your Home With Professional Pest Control
All types of homes in North Carolina can face termite problems. That’s why it’s crucial to work with professional termite exterminators for year-round protection. Bug Out’s team can thoroughly inspect your property and spot any potential termite risks. We know how to protect homes in North Carolina from these destructive pests.
So don’t wait for termites to cause expensive damage to your home. Whether you want to prevent a termite problem or get rid of an active infestation, Bug Out is here to help. Call us today or fill out a contact form here to schedule an inspection. We’ll get you started with your personalized termite protection plan.
