Termite Prevention

The first line of defense for property owners is having a regular termite inspection by a professional like Russ. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

In addition to regular inspections, property owners can do the following:

Pull mulch back several inches from the structure. Never let mulch or groundcovers such as gravel or black plastic touch the structure.

photo showing 6 inches clear between mulch and the lowest siding on a house
Siding should be 6-12 inches above the soil line
image © UF/IFAS Florida Extension Service

Plant or prune shrubs near the structure to allow space and airflow between the plants and the structure.

photo of wood stacked against a house

Never stack firewood against the side of any structure. Termites will use the stack as both a food source and a way to enter a house unseen. Stack firewood on concrete blocks and away from the house, preferably 10-20 feet away.


image © Florida Bug Inspectors

Eliminate sources of moisture. Check for leaking faucets and dripping air conditioners. Check downspouts to ensure that water drains away from the structure. Excessive moisture around foundation can lead to termite problems.

Walk around the structure to find any small openings. Caulk and seal as needed.

Russ Frank is the owner and manager of Florida Bug Inspectors. He's been doing professional pest control and termite inspections in Tampa on daily basis for over 25 years.

Do you have termite prevention questions? Contact Russ at 813-727-4758 for answers.

Professional termite inspections offered in: Apollo Beach, Bloomingdale, Brandon, Carrollwood, Citrus Park, Drew Park, Egypt Lake, Forest Hills, Gibsonton, Lutz, New Tampa, North Tampa, Plant City, Riverview, Ruskin, Seminole Heights, South Tampa, Sulphur Springs, Seffner, Tampa, Tampa Heights, Temple Terrace, Thonotosassa, Town and Country, USF area, Valrico, Wellswood, Ybor City …and all areas in between.