Keep Termites Out and Know the Signs of an Infestation
When it comes to protecting your home, termites are one of the most damaging and expensive threats. Termites can be in your home without you knowing. They burrow into wooden structures and feed on the cellulose found in wood. If termites have infested your home, they can cause several thousand dollars of damage. Additionally, repairing the damage can require significant work and may take an extended period of time.
For any homeowner, termites are a worst-case scenario. The team at TSL Insurance provides homeowners insurance in Louisiana and knows how serious a termite infestation can be. Here are some tips on how to identify and prevent a termite infestation in your home.
Signs of a Termite Infestation
While termites can be hard to locate, there are several signs of a termite infestation. Look for areas of drywall that are drooping or discolored. Paint that is peeling or looks like water damage is another sign. Moisture within wood or tiles can be another sign of termites. Termites need a moist environment to survive. Inspect the wood for any signs of damage, like buckling or holes. If termites have infested wooden structures, knocking on them will sound hollow.
The flooring may also begin to warp if it has been damaged by termites. Another sign of termites can be found around the foundation of your home. Look for mud tubes around the exterior of your home, as
these are a sign of termites.
One of the most obvious signs of termites is active swarming or the remnants of a termite swarm. Termites will swarm by the thousands, and it can be concerning. Oftentimes, these swarms may look like flying ants, and it is important to identify them properly.
Luckily, termites do not bite or harm people. However, swarms indicate the beginnings of a termite infestation. If you see piles of wings around your property, this can be a sign of a termite infestation. When any of these signs
are present, contact a termite professional as soon as possible.
Preventing Termites
Since termites cause so much damage, preventative measures are recommended. Termites look for two things: moisture and materials with cellulose. Unfortunately, hot and humid weather allows termites to thrive due to the presence of moisture and how materials may not fully dry out.
Prevent moisture around your home by having properly functioning drainage. Inspect areas where water may be for pooling or wet areas. Divert any drain downspouts away from your home.
Regularly inspecting and cleaning out gutters is also a great way to prevent termites. Make sure to remove any items around your home that contain cellulose. This includes firewood, brush, and even mulch. A good rule to follow is to keep a 4-inch buffer zone between your home and any mulch. Trim back and branches that may grow into or near your home.
If you remove the food source of termites, it will prevent them from infesting your home. Homeowners in Louisiana should have a termite professional come out to inspect and treat their homes each year. These professionals have specialized treatments for termites that differ from normal pest control.
Termites and Homeowners Insurance in Louisiana
By inspecting and taking preventative measures within your home, you can prevent termites. Most policies for homeowners insurance in Louisiana do not cover termite damage. This is due to termite infestations being preventable situations. The best way to prevent termites is to follow the steps above and to have a termite professional come to your home every year.
If you have questions on how termite damage impacts your Louisiana homeowners insurance, contact our team today.
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