Read these practical tips to find out what you can do to help prevent the spread of Formosan termites.

Formosan termites are a form of subterranean termite, which are known worldwide for their destructive behaviors. These pests, which consume wood and cellulose extremely rapidly, are known for being a common problem throughout Mississippi and Louisiana. The best way to control Formosan termites is to make your area less attractive for their colonies in order to diminish their spread. Here are just a few ways that you can reduce the distribution of Formosan termites in your region.

Examine the Environment Around Your House

Like many other pests, Formosan termites are attracted to areas where they will find a large source of moisture and food. For these termites, this means damp wood. If your yard has wood littering the ground, this is a very appealing and appetizing invitation for the subterranean termites in your area.

When we mention wood on the ground around your home, this does not only mean piles of firewood or other substantial amounts of wooden material. This also refers to small pieces of wooden debris that could have fallen from trees on your property. You can reduce the risk of attracting termites if you keep these types of items cleared away from your home as frequently as possible.

formosan termites

 

Eliminate Moisture Problems in Your Home

Formosan termites are often attracted to homes that have some type of moisture or drainage problem that has caused the wood and other materials within the walls to become moist. If these moisture problems persist, the brown rot can develop, which produces brown rot fungi. Termites are greatly attracted to these fungi, and having it present in your home can encourage the spread of Formosan.

Water damage problems can occur because of leaks in the roof, cracks in the foundation, ventilation problems, or damage to pipes. It can be difficult to detect a moisture issue until the problem has become severe, mold and rot are occurring, and termites could already be present. Pest control specialists, such as those here at Fischer Environmental, have state-of-the-art equipment designed to identify unseen damage caused by water and pests. Being able to identify and address these issues early could greatly discourage the infestation of termites.

Be Cautious of Contaminated Wood

When Formosan termites are not infesting your home, they are living in wooded areas that are located above a source of water. Any time that you use wood for any purpose such as building a file or any other reason, you have to realize that this wood could be contaminated with termites. Damp wood should especially be utilized with caution. Any wood that you need to store is best stored as far away from your home as possible.

In many cases, Formosan termites are able to spread throughout Mississippi and Louisiana when wood is salvaged and relocated after an old building has been torn down. This wood, especially if the house was not maintained, or if it was damaged due to flooding, could certainly contain termites. When these salvaged materials are taken to other properties, termites are easily able to disperse among a new area.

It is best to use pressure-treated wood when using reclaimed wood, or rebuilding after a flood. This gives you the peace of mind that the wood is not going to be contaminated by Formosan termites, and these treated woods are resistant to rot and fungi that would attract infestations.