How to Stop Termites Destroying Hardwood Floors

Anyone who has either recently laid any kind of hardwood flooring, including solid oak, or has had it in their home for a while now needs to be aware of keeping a constant eye out for termites. Termites feed on wood and their presence can also result in serious health problems for human beings. With more than 3,000 different kinds of termites, all of which can cause major damage to not just wooden floors – resulting in a need for expensive wooden floor restoration or even replacement – but also furniture and fittings and possibly even the structure of the house itself, it is important to keep a watchful eye for any signs of the little critters.

Unfortunately, once seen, termites can be extremely difficult to get rid of and it is best to take preventative measures to try and avoid an infestation in the first place. Materials such as concrete and steel are impossible for termites to eat their way through and experts advise that any piles of wood outside the home should be kept well away from the house itself.

Experts also recommend that standing water should also be kept as far away from the house as possible in order to keep the soil nearest the house dry and thus less appealing to termites. Lastly, plastic or some other suitable material should be used to ensure that the foundations of your house and any cracks that may appear are properly sealed off to prevent termites chewing their way in from outside.