Trapped Moisture is Big Draw for Termites & Pests

July 25, 2011 - PRLog -- While trapped moisture in a home can cause significant structural damage and encourage growth of mold and mildew, it also creates a perfect breeding environment for pests.  

In addition to nuisance bugs like millipedes and centipedes, moisture draws destructive insects like subterranean termites, which need damp conditions to survive as they devour structural elements of a home.  

In fact, termites are reported to cause more than $5 billion in damage to American homes each year according to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA).

Most often, moisture and dampness accumulate in a home due to several key factors.  Issues like improper grading of a property can lead to inferior drainage.  Leaky pipes and accumulated condensation due to poor ventilation also are common contributors to moisture issues.

The key is preventing moisture buildup to keep termites from invading.

"Along with residential termite extermination services, we offer services to homeowners to help them deal with moisture control problems," says Donnie Shelton, President & CEO of Triangle Pest Control, a Raleigh pest management and termite extermination company.  "These services include installing French drains to route water away from foundations, installing vapor barriers, as well as creating temporary vents to get rid of trapped condensation."

Shelton also notes that there are simple tasks homeowners can do to help prevent trapped moisture around their households.  These include:
• Caulking cracks and gaps around your walls and foundation
• Insulating and sealing pipes
• Trimming back or removing plants and shrubs that are blocking air vents
• Eliminating yard waste and debris that are causing drainage problems, blocking vents, or drawing pests.

"By getting rid of moisture, you eliminate the conditions that are favorable to termites, and that can save you thousands of dollars in home repairs down the road."

Triangle Pest Control has served the residential termite extermination needs of the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill-Cary region since 2003.

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Founded in 2003, Triangle Pest Control is the North Carolina leader in Bed Bug Management. A Raleigh extermination company, Triangle Pest Control specializes in an integrated pest management process that includes both elimination and prevention. The company has a firm commitment to working only with materials that have maximize the safety of families, children, and pets and is ranked #1 in customer service among Raleigh pest control companies.