Do Termites Infest Brick Homes?

Termites are infamous for causing a lot of wood damage. They obviously infest wooden homes, but what about structures built with brick, stone, or other materials? The bad news is that a termite infestation can still occur. This is because termites are attracted to more than just wood. In fact, anything containing cellulose is at risk of being infested with termites.

With Termite Awareness Week upon us, the experts at Russell’s Pest Control are here to share all you need to know about what may be putting your Knoxville home at risk for termites. Read on to learn more.

What Materials Attract Termites?

There is a misconception that only wooden homes can be infested by termites. Unfortunately, this is simply not true. Brick homes, concrete homes, stucco homes, and stone homes can all be infested by termites. Wood stored near your home, moisture issues, wooden decks, and more could all put you at risk for a termite problem. If you notice any of the risk factors listed below, your home could be vulnerable to a termite problem.

6 Things That Attract Termites to Your Home

Termites aren’t just out to infest wood. There are many factors at play that could make your home more attractive to these destructive pests:

1. Moisture. Leaky pipes, broken sprinklers, or clogged gutters can all lead to moisture problems in your home. In turn, this could attract subterranean termites (not to mention hoards of other pests) inside.
2. Cellulose. Termites may be infamous for infesting wood, but they’re actually after the cellulose contained within! This cellulose is a main component that can be found in wallpaper, plants, mulch, drywall, and more.
3. Landscape. Termites can infest mulch, making it important to keep it away from the perimeter of your home. Also trim back tree branches that may be too close to your property.
4. Access to soil. Subterranean termites need contact with soil to live. Any wood items, whether it’s your home, porch, or firewood in the yard, in contact with soil is at risk for a termite problem.
5. Warmth. Termite problems are generally more common in warmer, humid parts of the world. This puts our Southern state at a higher risk of termite activity year-round.
6. Decaying wood. If you have logs, trees, or stumps that are rotten or in decay, you can be sure termites will seek them out.

Termites in Knoxville Homes

Bottom line: When it comes to keeping your home safe from termites, it’s best to call an expert. The termite control experts at Russell’s Pest Control can thoroughly inspect your property and pinpoint any vulnerabilities that could make you prone to termite problems down the road. Contact us today!