Home renovations are exciting, but they also present the perfect opportunity for termites to invade. Whether you're remodeling a single room or doing a full-scale renovation, taking proactive steps to prevent termites can save you from costly damage down the line. Here’s how to keep these destructive pests at bay while upgrading your home.
1. Use Termite-Resistant Materials
One of the best ways to prevent termites is by choosing termite-resistant materials. Treated wood, composite materials, metal, and concrete can make it much harder for termites to establish a colony in your home. If you're using wood, opt for pressure-treated lumber that’s infused with termite-repellent chemicals.
✅ Best for: New construction and remodeling projects ✅ Bonus: Longer lifespan and added durability
2. Apply Termite Treatments Before Construction
Pre-construction termite treatments are highly effective at keeping termites away. A liquid termiticide applied to the soil before laying the foundation creates a long-lasting barrier against subterranean termites. Borate treatments on wood are another great option, as they penetrate deep into the material and make it inedible for termites.
✅ Best for: New foundations, flooring, and wooden framing ✅ Longevity: Can last several years with proper application
3. Maintain a Termite-Free Perimeter
During renovations, be mindful of what’s around your home. Avoid stacking wood, lumber, or debris near the house, as this creates the perfect hiding spot for termites. Keep mulch at least 12 inches away from the foundation and ensure the soil grade slopes away from your home to prevent moisture buildup.
✅ Best for: Outdoor renovations and landscaping ✅ Tip: Use gravel or rubber mulch instead of wood mulch
4. Seal Entry Points
Termites can squeeze through tiny cracks in your foundation, walls, or flooring. During renovations, take the time to inspect and seal potential entry points. Use caulk, expanding foam, or weatherstripping to close gaps around windows, doors, plumbing, and electrical entry points.
✅ Best for: Older homes or homes with previous termite issues ✅ Benefit: Enhances energy efficiency in addition to termite prevention
5. Reduce Moisture in and Around Your Home
Termites thrive in moist environments. Renovations are a great time to upgrade your drainage system, fix leaky pipes, and improve ventilation in crawl spaces and attics. Installing a vapor barrier and ensuring proper airflow can significantly reduce the risk of termites.
✅ Best for: Homes in humid climates ✅ Tip: Use dehumidifiers in problem areas
6. Install Termite Barriers
Physical termite barriers, like stainless steel mesh or sand barriers, can be installed beneath foundations, around plumbing, and in walls to prevent termites from gaining access. These barriers are especially useful for homes in termite-prone areas.
✅ Best for: New builds or major renovations ✅ Downside: Can be costly upfront but saves money long-term
7. Schedule Regular Termite Inspections
Even if you take all the right precautions, regular termite inspections are a must. A professional can spot early signs of an infestation and recommend preventive measures before termites become a problem.
✅ Best for: Homes in high-risk areas ✅ Tip: Annual inspections help catch problems before they escalate
Protect Your Renovation with Attack Pest Control
Don’t let termites ruin your investment! Attack Pest Control offers expert termite prevention and treatment services to ensure your home stays protected during and after renovations. Our experienced team will assess your home and apply industry-leading techniques to keep termites out for good.