What is one effective way to reduce the risk of termite infestations?

Improving drainage around the property is an effective way to reduce the risk of termite infestations. Termites are attracted to moisture, and poor drainage can create conditions that are ideal for their survival and reproduction. By ensuring that water drains away from the foundation of a building, you minimize the moisture levels that can attract termites and help prevent the establishment of colonies near the structure.

Furthermore, effective drainage can involve maintaining gutters, ensuring downspouts direct water away, grading the soil around the foundation, and repairing any leaks in plumbing. These measures collectively create an environment that is less hospitable to termites, thus significantly lowering the chances of an infestation.

In contrast, increasing wood storage (which can provide a food source for termites), keeping mulch against the foundation (which can retain moisture and provide a habitat), and planting more trees (which can attract termites to the vicinity) do not address the underlying issues that encourage termite activity. Instead, these actions can inadvertently create favorable conditions for infestations.