Natural Ways To Tackle A Termite Infestation In Louisiana

Your home is built out of a few different materials. Some of the most common components are siding, shingles, and wood. These things work together to keep you safe from the elements and wild creatures that might want to contest your living areas. We are here today to talk about one local pest compromising the structure of local homes, termites. Here is everything you need to consider about termites in Louisiana and how to combat these pests on your property.

You’re Likely Never To See A Termite

You have heard of termites. You know of their destructive tendencies and the way they invade homes. What you may not know is what termites look like. Chances are you have never seen one of these local insects. This is because of where they live. Subterranean termites, the most common species in Louisiana, build their nests underground and invade structures of wood through tunnels. These pests are ⅛” long and have pale or cream-colored bodies. Termite swarmers have dark brown to black bodies and are ⅜” long, including their long oval-shaped wings. Swarmers are the only type of termites you have a good chance of spotting because they are the only termites that ever venture out into the open. Even these sightings are rare as swarmers only emerge to mate and establish new colonies. 

Factors That Attract Termites To Your Home And Yard 

Many things might attract termites to your property. These pests actively seek out yards that provide sources of food and moisture. As you already know, termites eat wood. They also like to nibble on other things that are high in cellulose, like cardboard, newspaper, and leaves. If there is a lot of organic clutter on your property, these pests might establish a nest nearby to gather it up. The same thing is true if your home’s structural wood is water-damaged, rotting, or in decay. The best way to address these factors is to implement some simple termite prevention tips. 

Natural Ways To Make Your Property Less Attractive To Termites

If you are not seeing signs of termites on your property and are confident these pests are not around, you should take some time today to make sure they stay away. Here are a few natural methods to prevent termites:

• Address moisture problems on your property. This includes leaky pipes, rainwater build-up, and clogged gutters.
• Clean up sticks, leaves, cardboard, newspaper, and other similar items from your yard.
• Repair your home’s structural wood if it is moisture-damaged, rotting, or in decay.

For a better answer to termites in Louisiana, consider investing in year-round termite treatments.