As a homeowner, you care about the safety and comfort of your property. Unfortunately, termites can be attracted to your home and interfere with its security and structure without your knowledge. As such, one of the most essential parts of termite control is knowing what attracts these wood-boring insects to your house. Below are some of the most common issues to be aware of to enjoy a termite-free residence. 

3 Items That Attract Termites to Your House

1. Mulch

Termites are naturally drawn to wood, which is one of their main sources of nourishment. As a result, areas full of organic wood mulch, such as bark or wood chips from a recent tree removal project, increase termite infestation risks when they are close to your home. For example, if you spread bark mulch in a garden bed next to your house, you may be unintentionally attracting termites right up to your home. To minimize this risk, use bark mulch in gardens and around trees that are not near your residence, and consider alternative mulches for garden beds close to your home, such as river rock. There are also wood mulch varieties that termites avoid due to the resins they feature, such as cedar mulch, which can help protect your property.

2. Wood Piles

Termites, like any pest, are always looking for their next meal. Unfortunately, firewood piles that are near or up against your home’s walls provide convenient food sources for termites. They consume the cellulose in wood and naturally gravitate towards properties with significant firewood. For this reason, it's best to place firewood piles as far away from your residence as possible for effective termite control, such as in the back corner of your property. This practice also helps deter other pests, including mice who use the woodpiles for shelter and predator protection. 

3. Plumbing Leaks

In addition to food, termites need water to survive. For this reason, they can also often be found around plumbing leaks. Since leaks also attract other pests, including cockroaches and ants, make a habit of checking under sinks and around fixtures about once a month. You’ll also want to educate yourself about hidden leak signs, including brownish stains on ceilings and walls and wet-to-the-touch drywall, which can secretly harbor termites. In addition, staying ahead of plumbing leaks can help you conserve water and keep utility bills manageable. 

If you're worried that your home may have started to attract termites, contact AllPest Pest Control & Wildlife Removal. Serving the Miami Valley area of Ohio since 2004, this family-owned company offers a comprehensive range of pest control services to keep area residences healthy and structurally sound. Call (937) 884-5646 today to make an appointment, or visit the website for more about their termite control services.