The warm weather and growing neighborhoods in Frisco make it a great place to live. But they can also be the reason for termites to lurk around, ready to move in if given the chance. Most homeowners think of old wood or damp basements when they hear about a termite problem. But some surprising things might also be inviting termites into your home. That is why saelapest.com termite control services involve addressing the underlying cause of the problem. Below are things that could be attracting termites to your home in Frisco.
Mulch That Is Too Close to the House
Mulch is great for your garden as it keeps moisture in the soil, helps stop weeds, and makes your yard look neat. But termites love mulch, especially when piled up right against your home’s foundation.
Mulch is made from wood. It becomes a perfect place for termites to hide and feed when it stays moist. A mulch touching your siding or stacked too high can give termites a direct path into your house.
This makes it important to keep mulch at least 12–18 inches away from your foundation. Also, you should not pile it more than a few inches deep. Use alternatives such as gravel or rubber mulch in high-risk areas.
Clogged Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters protect your home from water damage. But clogged gutters can overflow and cause water to pool around the base of your home.
Termites love moisture. A wet foundation or damp soil is an open invitation. Too much moisture outside can attract termites even if your home is mostly dry inside. So, clean your gutters at least twice a year, especially in the fall. Also, make sure downspouts are directing water away from your foundation. Consider adding gutter guards to keep leaves and debris out.
Firewood Stacked Against the House
It might be convenient to keep firewood close to the house, especially when the weather cools down and you light up the fireplace. But storing firewood next to your home is a big termite risk.
Woodpiles are the perfect hiding place for termites. They can easily enter your home once they start feeding on the firewood. From there, they can get into the walls, floors, and the foundation. Thus, you should store firewood at least 20 feet away from your house and keep it elevated off the ground, on a rack or concrete base. Also, use older wood first to prevent long-term buildup.
Hidden Moisture Under or Around Your Home
Hidden moisture can still attract termites even if your house looks dry and well-kept on the surface. This includes leaky outdoor faucets, broken sprinkler heads, or poor drainage in your yard.
Termites are drawn to moisture because it helps soften the wood, making it easier for them to chew through. Termites will notice if your yard or crawlspace stays damp. So, fix any leaking pipes, hoses, or outdoor taps right away. Also, check for water pooling after heavy rain and adjust drainage if needed. Make sure your crawlspace is well-ventilated and stays dry.
Wooden Decks, Fences, and Landscaping Features
You probably don’t think twice about your wooden deck, fence, or garden borders. But anything made of wood that touches the ground can be a termite target. Even treated wood can wear down and become vulnerable over time, especially in wet or humid conditions. Termites can easily migrate from them to your home’s structure if these outdoor wood features are close to your house. Thus, it is imperative to regularly inspect outdoor wooden structures for signs of damage. Apply sealant or termite-resistant treatment to wood features. Also, try using materials like metal or composite for fences and landscaping borders when possible.
