If you are a homeowner, there is a decent chance that you understand the damage termites can cause. The complications that result from these insects can be especially serious when they infiltrate your crawl space. Fortunately, we have created this article to help you learn tactics that will keep termites out of your crawl space. Read on to learn what you need to know to keep your crawl space free from termite damage.
Termite Prevention Methods for Crawl Spaces
Although termite infestations may seem unavoidable, nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, there are several measures you can take to ensure that your crawl space remains termite-free. Below is a list of the most effective methods:
1. Crawl Space Encapsulation: As you’ll soon learn, excessive moisture is something that termites prefer. The most effective way to keep excessive moisture out of your crawl space is through a service known as encapsulation. Crawl space encapsulation creates a complete seal between your crawl space and the outside world. This seal prevents moisture and pests from entering your home.
2. Dehumidification: Perhaps the most direct way to reduce moisture in any space is to set up a dehumidification system. The right dehumidifier allows you to monitor and manage the relative humidity in your crawl space. By keeping relative humidity low, you’ll drastically reduce the odds of a termite infestation.
3. Drainage System Repairs: If your drain pipes are damaged or faulty, they can cause water to pool. Pooling water invites termites and other pests to enter your home. You can ensure this is not a termite-encouraging problem for your crawl space by repairing your drainage system and inspecting it regularly.
4. Proper Grading: Look closely at the land surrounding your crawl space. If it is flat or pitches towards your home, water can pool, encouraging termites to arrive. Regrade your landscape to ensure the land slopes away from your foundation and not allow for puddling near your home.
5. Effective Gutters and Downspouts: Clogged gutters allow rainwater to spill over the side of the home and form puddles near your foundation. Cleaning your gutters regularly and installing downspout extensions ensures the system effectively collects water from your roof and deposits it far away, where it cannot damage your home or encourage termites.
6. Repair Cracks and Openings: Any cracks, gaps, or openings in your crawl space invite pests to enter. Inspect your crawl space to confirm it is free of openings.
7. Eliminate Food Sources: Remove any food substances in and around your crawl space. Any food that’s left behind will attract insects, including harmful termites.
Signs of Termite Infestation in Your Crawl Space
Understanding the main ways to prevent termites dramatically lowers your odds of an infestation. However, the arrival of termites remains possible even if you do your best to prevent it. As such, it is essential to learn the signs of a termite infestation. Below is a list of termite indicators you should look out for:
1. Dead Termites: The surest sign of a termite infestation is the discovery of dead termites in your crawl space. While the ones you find are lifeless, you can rest assured that plenty of live termites are in your home.
2. Discarded Termite Wings: Some termites have large, transparent wings up to an inch long. These termites often shed their wings during reproduction. So, if you see discarded wings, know there is a growing population of termites nearby.
3. Termite Droppings: Also known as frass, termite droppings are small, oval-shaped pellets that can be light tan to dark brown. The sight of frass strongly indicates that termites have made a home in your crawl space.
4. Damaged Lumber: Termites feed on lumber, so you can expect lumber damage if they are in your crawl space. This damage has several forms, including cracking, blistering, and overall deterioration.
5. Chewing Noises: While it seems surprising, you can often hear the presence of termites in your walls and flooring. Listen for light chewing noises to tell if you have an infestation.
Adverse Effects of a Termite Infestation
It is crucial to understand the negative effects that a termite infestation can have. As you’ll soon see, noticing the signs of an infestation can help you prevent costly damage and human health risks. Below is a quick list of the adverse outcomes termites can cause:
1. Lumber Damage: The most well-known effect of a termite infestation is wood damage. Termites feed on wood, meaning they can compromise your crawl space’s structural integrity. They can also damage your floors, walls, and ceilings, causing them to become unusable.
2. Disease Spread: Unfortunately, termites have the ability to spread disease. As such, if you have termites in your home, it is more likely that you or your family will contract an illness.
3. Allergic Reactions: The presence of termites can result in significant reactions in those allergic to them. An allergic reaction may be the first indication you notice that termites are present.
4. Fungal Infections: Termites can also carry fungi that can spread throughout your home. These fungi can affect your wood and weaken it, while the termites use it as a food source.
What to Do if You Think You Have Termites
If you suspect you have a termite infestation in your home, the best approach you can take is to hire a pest control service in your area. Rather than taking a DIY approach to pest removal, hiring a professional allows you to diagnose your issue and resolve it quickly before it becomes a widespread problem.
Protect Your Crawl Space
After discovering a termite infestation, hiring a pest control company is an excellent choice. However, many of the termite prevention measures we mentioned require the assistance of a crawl space expert.
HydroHelp911 is the perfect team to call for any crawl space concerns if you live in Charlotte, NC, or the surrounding areas. We’d love to hear from you and find ways to enhance your crawl space and keep it termite-free.
