There are a variety of reasons why people dream of living in log homes. They are aesthetically pleasing and the rustic ambiance reminds them of a simpler time. Their interior surroundings allow them to get in touch with nature and feel as if they are “roughing it” on the everyday basis, while still living in modern comfort. For as joyous as a log home is to some people, it is equally joyous to the termites that might take of residence in the structure. As most people know, this type of bug feeds on wood. The more wood there is in a home, the happier the little visitors are going to be. Termite treatments can be very expensive, but if left untreated, the bugs cause significant damage to a home. It is important for homeowners to have the structure of their homes checked and it is even more important when you live in a log cabin and your home is made primarily of food for these pests.

It might surprise some to realize that the exposed wood in a log home might actually be a blessing in disguise when it comes to these wood-eating pests. Since the wood is exposed, it is easy to see if there is damage being done to it. While other home owners might have to peel back layers of drywall or siding, a log cabin owner will see the effects of damage almost immediately. Even so, it is still important to check regularly for problems. Though you might think you are aware of the issues in your home, subtle differences sometimes do not stand out, so take time every few months to examine the wood of your home closely.

There are also several things you can do to avoid a problem from occurring in the first place. When the home is built, the logs should be treated to repel the bugs. Remember, they think wood is food, so anything you can do to make it less appetizing for them will drive them away. It can be pressure treated with chemicals that make it taste bad. It creates an undesirable habitat for the bugs, so they look elsewhere for food. Borate is one of the most popular and long-lasting chemicals for driving bugs away.

When building your home, make sure you, or the builder doing the building, uses high quality wood sources. You need lumber that resists moisture and that is treated with stain. There are additive that can be added to the stain to create an extra layer of protection. When the stain begins to wear off over the years, it is important to replace it. This is one of the most important maintenance jobs a homeowner can focus on.

Interact with the builder during the building experience and ask a lot of questions. Make sure he is not using wood scraps underneat the home or near the foundation. Decomposing wood is more attractive to bugs, use high quality wood that is in good shape. Also remove tree stumps from near the property because the creatures are happy to take up residence nearby until they are ready to relocate to your home.

Author Bio: Ellie Lewis is interested in finding a treatment for termites that is available for commercial locations. She is in need of termites treatment for her downtown hotel.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: termites,termite treatments