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How To Keep Termites Out Of The House

How To Keep Termites Out Of The House

Termites are a type of pest you want to ensure you don’t find in your house. They are challenging to deal with, and you’ll likely want a termite company to help you get rid of them completely. Termites are one of the most destructive pests in the world. They feed on dead plant matter. Dead plant matter can be seen in the form of wood chips, decayed logs or leaf litter.

The problem with termites is that they can’t be detected until they’ve already done damage to furniture, the house, etc. Termites typically live in colonies with thousands of other termites. It’s likely that if there is one termite, there is a lot more somewhere in the home.

There are over fifty species of termites, but the most common ones found in homes are Subterranean termite, dry wood termite and damp wood termite. Termites are drawn to the indoors of a home from moisture. They like moist, dark places and are often found in crawlspaces. Ensure yearly inspection of your home to look for signs of termites. In addition, there are a few things you can do to keep termites out.

Get Rid of Moisture

Termites are attracted to a high level of moisture. Use a dehumidifier if you live in a high-moisture environment. A few other things that can be helpful with managing moisture are to have indoor plants that absorb moisture, running exhaust fans when you’re cooking or showering, avoiding boiling pots on the stove when it’s hot outside, avoiding hang drying clothing, and cleaning your air conditioner filters.

Repair All Leaks

A leaky tap or faucet might not seem like a repair that needs to be immediate, but in fact, it is. Leaky taps can cause a build-up of moisture and attract termites. Pay close attention to basements. Because the basement is already in the ground, having a high level of moisture in the basement can cause termites to appear quickly. Fix leaky air conditioners, washing machines, shower taps, and any other source that leaks water.

Keep Distance Between Soil and Wood

Ensure an 18-inch separation between soil and wood. This will help to prevent termite attacks on the foundation of the house. In addition, it’s beneficial to create physical barriers for termites such as concrete or rock between the soil and wood.

Stack Firewood Away From the House

It’s a common practice to stack chopped firewood against the house, but it’s highly not recommended. Instead, ensure the wood is kept away from home. This will help to keep termites away.

Clear Away All Mulch

Avoid using wood mulch for landscaping. Clear the mulch away from the house. Mulch is known to be highly attractive to termites and can be the start of an attack.

Book an Assessment

It’s essential to book an assessment and have your property thoroughly examined by a professional every year. So call today to make your appointment with Universal Pest and Termite Inc. We have the skills, knowledge and expertise to spot termites and get rid of them as efficiently as possible.

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Why Universal

How We Compare to Other Pest Control Companies

Not every pest control company in Hampton Roads offers the same thing. Here is a straight comparison of what you get with Universal Pest Control and what is common elsewhere in the industry.

Comparison of Universal Pest & Termite, Inc. against common practice among other pest control companies serving Hampton Roads.
What to compareUniversal Pest ControlMost pest control companies
UniGuard ProgramExclusive

Universal Pest ControlUniGuard Program combines termite protection and full pest control in one membership for one low monthly payment — from $63/month, with the termite warranty and quarterly pest service included together.

Most pest control companiesTermite protection and pest control are usually sold as two separate agreements, with two renewals and two bills to keep track of.

SmartPay financingExclusive

Universal Pest Control$0-down payment options on termite treatments, baiting systems, and repairs, so the work can start before payday. Simple, predictable monthly payments.

Most pest control companiesFinancing, where it is offered, is commonly arranged separately through a third-party lender.

Pest Guard Attic Insulation™Exclusive

Universal Pest ControlHampton Roads' only licensed Pest Guard Insulation™ installer, through our sister company Universal Insulation Doctor — insulation manufactured with an EPA-registered pest preventative, so the replacement itself resists the insects that ruined the original.

Most pest control companiesAttic insulation is typically referred out, and standard fiberglass has no pest deterrent built into the material.

Total Home Health Network

Universal Pest ControlPest and termite control, attic insulation, and duct cleaning coordinated under one roof through the Universal family of companies — one point of contact for the whole job, done in the right order.

Most pest control companiesPest control only. Insulation and duct work are usually booked with separate vendors on separate timelines.

A+ BBB rating

Universal Pest ControlBBB accredited since 2007 with an A+ rating, earned through consistent, honest work in the same community.

Most pest control companiesAccreditation and ratings vary by company — worth checking before you book anyone.

26+ years in business

Universal Pest ControlProtecting Hampton Roads homes since 2000 — more than 26 years in the same market, with over 100,000+ homes serviced.

Most pest control companiesTenure in the area varies widely; newer branches and recently opened franchises are common.

Family owned & operated

Universal Pest ControlOwned and run by a family that has lived in Hampton Roads their whole lives. The people who answer the phone and the crews at your door are your neighbors.

Most pest control companiesOwnership varies — many local branches are franchises of national brands, with crews dispatched from outside the area.

Guarantees in writing

Universal Pest ControlPest-Free Guarantee and Termite-Free Guarantee: if pests come back between scheduled visits, so do we, at no extra charge. Free inspections, plus same-day and next-day service.

Most pest control companiesRetreatment terms, callback windows, and what counts as covered differ from contract to contract.

The highlighted Universal Pest & Termite column reflects services we provide directly or through the Universal family of companies. The “Most pest control companies” column describes common industry practice in general terms and is not a statement about any particular company — some companies may offer services that are similar, so ask any provider exactly what their plan, warranty, and quote include before you sign. Financing on approved credit.