For many, owning a home is a great feeling. With that in mind, it’s important to do everything possible in order to keep your home protected. One looming threat homeowners may have to deal with is the presence of termites. In fact, statistics show that 20% of homeowners reported that termites were their main pest concern. These insects mainly feed on wood but are also known to consume any material that contains cellulose. In many cases, the only option for a homeowner after seeing termites is to call an exterminator. It’s understandable to want to reduce the chances of termites invading your property. With that in mind, here are four simple ways to prevent termites from wreaking havoc on your home.

1. Ensure Your Roof is in Good Condition
   
   Termites can enter a home from many exterior areas, especially through the roof. You will want your roof to be free of missing shingles. Considering that, termites often enter into a home from areas of a roof where tiles are missing. In addition, it’s wise to make sure that your roof has no damp spots due to the fact that termites are attracted to moisture. Termites are known to cause large amounts of damage to a home after they have found their way inside. In fact, statistics show that 15% of all new homes have some form of serious structural damage, part of which may have come from termites. If you suspect the presence of termites within your home, it’s wise to call an exterminator right away.
2. Consider Storing Items in Plastic Containers
   
   It’s understandable that certain items within your home will need to be stored in an attic. You’ll find that an attic is a great place for safe and secure storage. However, it’s important to know that termites love to feed on cardboard boxes. Termites that have found their way inside of a cardboard box will often begin feed on the contents inside, especially if there is paper present. If you want to protect your items from termites, it’s wise to consider using plastic storage devices.
3. Remove Tree Stumps From Your Property
   
   In certain situations, trees need to be cut down and removed from a yard. After a tree has been cut down, a stump is typically left behind. Unfortunately, tree stumps are perfect sources of food for hungry termites. You’ll find the threat of termites entering your home increases if a particular tree stump is positioned close to your home. It’s wise to contact an exterminator as soon as possible when dealing with termites. Statistics show that certain termites queens have the ability to lay up to 40,000 eggs each day. It’s wise to have termite control services take care of these insects before their overall population becomes too much to manage.
4. Utilize Alternative Mulch Sources
   
   An important part of the termite control process is removing wood from around the perimeter of your home. Mulch made from wood is close to the ground and often damp, creating the perfect feeding area for termites. It’s wise to consider replacing any wooden mulch with gravel around your property. Using gravel as mulch will serve the same purpose as wood pieces without having to worry about providing termites with an additional food source.

To summarize, there are several steps to help prevent termites from entering your home. Termites typically enter a home through the roof. With that in mind, it’s advisable to ensure that your roof is free from excess moisture. In addition, you’ll want to ensure that there are no missing shingles on your roof, as this makes for a great entry point for termites. These insects don’t only love munching on wood but also enjoy eating cardboard and paper. Therefore, it’s advisable to keep all paper items safely secured in plastic containers. You’ll want to have tree stumps properly removed from your property. It’s wise to replace any wooden mulch with another material including gravel or rubber. It’s wise to call an exterminator at the first sign of spotting a termite due to the fact that these insects reproduce quickly.