Termites are not only unappealing pests — they are also financially-overwhelming pests. While shocking to learn, termites cause billions of dollars in structural damage each year. Thankfully, help is available treating a termite infestation, but proper understanding is key. With this guide, you will learn a few common causes of termite infestations.

Moisture

Most pests are searching for the same things — food, warmth, and moisture. If your home has a moisture problem, you may be at risk of a termite infestation.

There are obvious signs of moisture problems you need to know. For instance, if you have puddling around your home's foundation, which occurs after heavy rains, you will be at risk. Consider having your yard graded to ensure water runs away from the home instead of puddling up around the foundation.

Also, if you have high levels of humidity inside the home, which may stem from a heating/cooling issue, you will be at risk of a termite infestation.

Check your crawlspace, too, for signs of moisture. A vapor barrier should be installed or you should consider having your crawlspace sealed for even more protection against moisture and pests.

Trees

Trees can also be causing your termite infestation, but you may not realize how.

In certain climates, termites will live in and feed on the wood of the trees. Eventually, these termites can make their way to your home, especially if the trees are close to the home's exterior.

If you have trees with limbs and branches that hang over your roof or hang close to the exterior siding, termites will have an easy way into your home. You do not necessarily have to cut down these trees, but you should trim off branches and limbs that overhang onto the roof.

Also, check your gutters for debris from trees. Leaves and small branches may break off, falling not only on your roof but also into your gutters. Termites infesting this debris will quickly move into the home. This debris also clogs your gutters, causing rain to build up, which increases the moisture content around your home.

Wood

Again, termites love consuming wood, especially if it is wet and soft. If you pile firewood or project lumber up close to your home, you may be placing yourself at risk for a termite infestation.

Be sure to store this wood as far away from the home as possible. Keep it covered under a shelter, as well, to prevent it from getting wet and appealing to termites.

For more information about termite control, contact a company like Lanier Exterminating Service Inc.