Termites are almost everywhere, and termite damage is rarely covered by homeowner insurance. That's a bad combination, because termites cause $2.5 billion/year of property damage in the U.S.

Termite problems potentially get worse the farther south and west you live, so here in Austin we are smack dab in the middle of  it. 

Termites love moisture and according to Austin area pest specialists other than moving to Maine, North Dakota or Alaska the best prevention is to keep moisture and termite food away from your house.

Termite Prevention Tips - 

* Clear sticks, branches, leaves, any wood debris and other wood items away from your home.

* Fill depressions that might hold water. This will keep water flowing away from the house (and it will minimize the mosquito problem).

* Adjust landscaping sprinklers to ensure that the house is not being watered along with your lawn and garden.

* Make sure splashblocks are in place at downspouts, that the splashblocks are in good condition, and that they still direct water away from the house.

* Maintain that exterior soil grade to drain away from the house; even if you change your landscaping.          

* See if there is leakage at your hose bib (outdoor faucet) when you are using a hose.

* Inspect/replace the washers on your hoses periodically. Water from leaking hoses can run straight down your foundation wall. 

All for now......buggin' out!