Termite control is an activity that many homeowners try to avoid by overlooking the evidence of their pest problem. This can be dangerous because some of the untreated areas end up being severely damaged by the bugs and you are in need of quick action! Read on to find out how to effectively destroy your pests so they do not cause too much damage.
Overview of Termite Control
There are many different types of termites. The most common type in the United States is the subterranean termite, which lives in the ground. Other types include the Subtropical Termite, which lives in warm climates, and the Australian Termite, which lives in cold climates.
The best way to control termites is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. Termites are attracted to homes that have wood that has been treated with an insecticide or water damage. You can try to seal any cracks or openings around your home’s foundation and plumbing systems. You can also install screens on exterior doors and windows and treat these areas as well.
If you do find Termites inside your home, you will need to get rid of them. There are many different ways to do this, but the most common is using a professional exterminator.
Termite Control Methods
Soil and Barrier Treatments
There are a few different soil treatments that can be used to help control termites. One is to use an insecticide to kill the termites before they can feed on your home’s foundation or walls. This is typically done by drilling small holes in the base of the structure and spraying the insecticide directly into the soil below. Another treatment is to surround your home with a metal or plastic barrier, which will prevent the termites from reaching your home’s foundation or walls.
Termite Baiting Stations
Termite baiting stations are another common way to control termites. These stations are often filled with food that Termites will eat, but also contains a chemical that will kill them if they try to consume it. The idea is that when Termites visit the station, they’ll get sick and die, leaving your home free from infestation It’s important to note that termite baiting stations only work if there are enough Termites in the area for them to feed on the food. If you live in an area where Termites aren’t common, a bait station may not be effective at controlling them.
Fumigation
A fumigation option is also available for termite control. This process uses chemicals to kill the termites and is typically used when other methods have failed. Fumigation should only be used in cases where it is absolutely necessary due to safety concerns or when there is no other viable option.
Termite Prevention
Termite prevention is important to any homeowner, particularly if they have a wood-frame house. There are several things you can do to keep termites from entering your home, including sealing up any cracks and holes in the foundation, using a termite barrier around the foundation perimeter, and maintaining a clean building interior.
General Termite Prevention Checklist
Keep your property dry. This includes keeping gutters clean, caulking and weather stripping around windows and doors, maintaining a weed-free yard, and avoiding over-watering.
Seal cracks and crevices in wood with caulk or a wood sealant. A wood sealant will resist moisture penetration and protect the wood from decay. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions for application before use.
Physical barriers can also help reduce moisture intrusion. Drywall is a good example of a physical barrier that can be installed in walls and ceilings. It is made of sheets of paper-thin plastic coated with an adhesive that becomes rigid when dry.
The plastic blocks moisture vapor transmission from the inside to the outside of the wall or ceiling, protecting it against rot and decay.
Conclusion
Termite control can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to get the job done. In this article, we will discuss some of the most effective treatments for controlling termites. We hope that this information will help you make an informed decision as to which treatment option is best for your situation.