Preventing termite infestations is better than dealing with them after the fact. Infestations can be persistent and difficult to get rid of once they become well-established. The truth is that many termite infestations are very preventable and result from mistakes made by homeowners.

You can minimize the chances that you'll experience a termite infestation at your home by avoiding the following six mistakes.

Neglecting needed repairs to roofing materials and soffit/fascia

Keeping your home's exterior in good shape is essential to keeping out termites. Over time, your roof and your soffit/fascia can experience wear and tear that could create gaps. Termites can easily penetrate a home through these gaps so that an infestation can begin.

It's important to regularly inspect your roof and your soffit/fascia to look out for any missing components or any gaps that allow access from the outside. If you notice that anything's amiss, you should schedule repairs immediately to keep termites out.

Allowing moisture to accumulate around the home

Termites and many other types of pests are attracted to moisture. You should make sure that moisture is not gathering anywhere in your home. You can do this by ensuring that there are no leaks in your roof or in your plumbing system. Make sure leaks in pipes, faucets, and AC units are repaired immediately to keep your home dry and healthy.

Failing to replace weather stripping when necessary

Weather stripping will wear off eventually and need to be replaced. When weather stripping is missing, an opening can be created that can allow termites to penetrate a home. Inspect your weather stripping on a seasonal basis and replace it as necessary. 

Ignoring changes in wooden building components

Detecting a termite issue as early as possible is important to prevent a full-blown infestation. If any wooden building components seem to be weakening or sounding hollow when they are tapped on, termites could be causing damage. Contact a termite exterminator immediately if you notice anything unusual.

Storing firewood and vegetation too close to your home's perimeter

Termites will be attracted to wood piles and piles of vegetation. You should store firewood piles at some distance from your home's perimeter to avoid attracting termites into your home. 

Never reapplying paint

Paint can provide a layer of protection and dissuade termites from coming into your home. If paint becomes chipped and worn away on your home's surfaces, it's a good idea to apply another coat. This will not only improve the appearance of your home but also help keep termites out.