As a homeowner, you must be aware of the potential damage that termites can inflict on your home. Termites are considered the top threat to wood-based structures. In fact, Americans spend over $5 billion annually protecting their homes and fixing damage from termites! It is imperative to protect your largest financial asset from the destruction caused by these pests.

There are two types of termites:

Subterranean termites: They live underground and build colonies in the soil surrounding your home. These termites can be found throughout the U.S. and enter homes through tunnels constructed from mud. Their tunnels are brown and cylindrical and generally found on the sides of a home. If you see swarms of winged insects around the foundation or sides of your home, there is likely an active termite colony infesting your home. If you find discarded wings that resemble fish scales, there has likely been a swarm of termites — and they could be inside your home. To learn more about subterranean termites, watch the video below:

Drywood termites: They live entirely in wood. These termites will burrow into any wood portion of homes, including framing and flooring. Drywood termites are usually found in warm southern climates in the U.S. They can enter a home through a space smaller than the edge of a dime, making any unsealed cracks in the home's foundation inviting to them. To learn more about drywood termites, watch the video below:

There are many things you can do to help prevent termites from entering and damaging your home. Among them are:

Removing termite access to your home

• To eliminate entry points, seal gaps around water and gas lines where termites enter your home.


• Seal all cracks and crevices in your foundation.

Reducing food sources

• Make sure wood siding is at least six inches above the ground.


• Remove any dead trees, firewood, and any other wood from around your home.

Minimizing excess moisture

• Make sure water does not pool around the home's foundation.


• Be certain that basements and crawl spaces are dry.

The best way to prevent termite damage is by hiring a pest control company that will inspect for termites and use a soil treatment or spray to deter termites from attacking your home. Keeping a watchful eye on the foundation of your house is important as well. Protecting your home from termites will ensure that the structure of your home stays sound for years to come and that you can sell without home inspection issues down the road.