Termite Prevention Tips

Reduce Moisture Around Your Home

Termites are attracted to moisture. Keeping your home dry is one of the most effective ways to reduce termite risk. Fix leaky faucets, water pipes, and AC units promptly. Make sure gutters and downspouts direct water away from your foundation.

• Repair leaking plumbing and fixtures immediately
• Ensure proper drainage around your foundation
• Install vapor barriers in crawl spaces to reduce ground moisture
• Keep HVAC drip lines clear and directed away from the home

Eliminate Wood-to-Soil Contact

Termites travel through soil to reach wood. Any wood in direct contact with the ground creates an easy path into your home. Maintain a gap between soil and any wooden parts of your structure.

• Keep at least 6 inches between soil and wood siding, porches, or deck posts
• Use concrete or metal supports for fence posts and mailboxes
• Store firewood, lumber, and mulch at least 20 feet from your home
• Remove dead stumps and tree roots from near your foundation

Seal Entry Points

Even small cracks in your foundation can give termites a way in. Regularly inspect and seal any gaps in your home's exterior to reduce vulnerable entry points.

• Seal cracks and gaps in your foundation with caulk
• Repair damaged or missing weather stripping around doors and windows
• Screen all vents, including attic and crawl space openings
• Inspect where utility lines enter the home and seal any gaps

Schedule Regular Inspections

The best defense against termites is early detection. Annual professional inspections can catch activity before significant damage occurs. In Southeast Missouri, where termite populations are especially dense, regular inspections are essential.

United Pest Control offers free termite inspections to homeowners. Our trained technicians know exactly where to look and what signs to watch for. Don't wait until you see damage — prevention starts with awareness.