Fall has finally made its way to Phoenix, and with winter right around the corner, the end of bug season feels just within reach. However, don’t let the lack of bugs outside fool you — when temperatures drop, termites look for warmth and shelter inside homes just like we do. Now is the time to take precautions, so follow these six steps to protect your Arizona home from termites and wood-destroying organisms (WDOs) this fall.
1. Hire an Expert
Even the most attentive homeowner can miss what lies beneath the surface. After all, termites are subterranean critters, meaning they often live underground or within walls where damage isn’t immediately visible. Hiring a licensed professional is the most effective way to bring those hidden problems to the surface.
An experienced inspector knows exactly where to look for termites. That includes foundation cracks and moisture-prone areas that may reveal early signs of termite activity. Inspectors also use specialized tools and training to detect what the average person cannot see.
Simply put, a professional termite inspection doesn’t just uncover problems. It helps prevent them, protecting both your investment and your peace of mind.
2. Maintain a Clean Property
WDOs and other unwanted pests look for places where they can live and eat comfortably, ideally without you noticing. Cleaning up clutter can be integral to keeping your home bug-free, as they’ll have fewer places to hide. Termites love walls, but their entry points and signs of damage can go unnoticed because of clutter. Other insects, spiders or pests might also hang around in those spots without you knowing.
Cleaning up outside helps, too. Clear leaves and weeds, especially close to doors and entrances. Keep firewood away from your home and store it above ground to deter termites and bugs from using the wood as an access point into the house.
3. Mitigate Moisture
Termites and WDOs need a water source. Moisture buildup in plants and wood or static water pools like pet water dishes and birdbaths are all points the pests might seek. Fix any leaks that you can and keep a close eye on pet dishes.
Clogged gutters can also lead to water buildup and are a big attractor for termites. Especially in autumn, when leaves fall and temperatures cool, these WDOs are drawn to warm and wet areas of your home. Take preventive measures by cleaning gutters or investing in gutter blockers.
4. Landscape to Deter Pests
In addition to clearing outside areas, you can incorporate termite and pest deterrents into your yard. For example, adding garlic to your soil or spraying your plants with a mixture of mint and water can repel insects.
Encouraging pollinators and other beneficial insects to your yard can also reduce the risk of harmful pests entering your home. Adding plants can promote biodiversity and attract good insects, like bees and earthworms.
5. Seal Potential Entry Points
There may be many entry points inside and outside your home for bugs to sneak in. Ensure that your doors and windows seal tightly. Cracks in your home’s foundation or walls can also serve as access points, so take the time to seal these off. Inspect your window and door screens for holes and patch them if possible. To this well and you can reduce your need for a termite inspection in your future.
The changing weather may increase damage to your home, especially during the fall, when Arizona transitions from a hot summer to a cool winter. Watch out for sealant deterioration and stucco cracks, which may create small openings for bugs.
6. Monitor the Situation
Checking for and preventing termites isn’t a one-time task. Regularly monitoring your home and watching for any signs of damage or entry can help you avoid costly repairs in the future..
Look for signs of termites, like wood shavings, damage to your walls or paint, and termite droppings. If you see any of these signs, call an expert for a closer look.
Stay Ahead of Fall Pests
Termites in Arizona are a common occurrence due to our warm climate and soil conditions. Investing in prevention and scheduling a regular termite inspection can help you avoid costly repairs and keeps your home well-protected throughout the year. Stay ahead of these common pests and enjoy peace of mind this winter.
