Insects, rodents, and other pests are more than just a nuisance; they can carry diseases, aggravate allergies, and spread germs. These pests can cause considerable property and structural damage if their activities go undetected for any length of time. There are several steps that builders can take to reduce opportunities for pest intrusion and damage. Wet wood attracts carpenter ants and is easier for animals to gnaw through so it is important to construct the home so that it stays dry or dries out quickly if some components do get wet. In areas with a high likelihood of termite infestation, building codes restrict where and how rigid foam can be installed along the interior and exterior of basement and foundation walls. Although termites don’t eat the foam, they tunnel through it; therefore, its presence can hide their activities from building inspectors. Many of the same activities that builders take to air seal a home, like caulking seams and sealing around pipes and wiring , will also keep out insects. Vent openings and ventilation gaps at the tops and bottoms of walls should be covered with wire mesh.