How to Get Rid of Termites
Do you have a termite problem? If so, you are not alone. Termites are one of the most common pests in the United States. They can cause a lot of damage to your home or business, and can be very difficult to get rid of.
In this guide, we will discuss how to identify a termite infestation, as well as some of the best ways to get rid of them.
What is a Termite?
A termite is a small insect that lives in colonies. Subterranean termites are the most common type of termite in the United States. They live in the soil, and build mud tubes to get to their food source.
Termites are small, wood-eating insects. They are related to ants, and can cause a lot of damage to your home or business. Termites eat the wood in your home, which can then lead to structural damage.
How to Spot Signs of a Termite Infestation
Termites can be very difficult to spot, especially if they are only invading a small area. However, there are some signs you can look for:
- Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
- Mud tubes on the outside of your home or building
- Piles of wings near windows or doors
- Discolored or damaged wood
If you see any of these signs, it is important to contact a professional as soon as possible. They will be able to properly assess the situation, and determine the best course of action. They should be able to help with other bugs and pests in your house.
How to Get Rid of Termites Yourself: The 6 Best Methods
There are a few different methods you can use to get rid of termites yourself. However, it is important to note that these methods may not be 100% effective, and you should always contact a professional if the problem persists.
Here are some of the best methods for getting rid of termites:
Method 1: Liquid Termite Barrier
One of the most common and effective methods for getting rid of termites is to create a liquid termite barrier. This can be done by mixing water and insecticide together and applying it to the affected area. For this method, we recommend using Termidor, a professional termite control product, for a variety of reasons. Here’s what makes Termidor so effective:
- It’s a non-repellent, so termites can’t detect it
- It’s undetectable to other insects, so they don’t avoid it
- It has a delayed reaction, so termites spread it throughout the colony before they realize something is wrong
- This method is most effective when applied by a professional.
How to Use this Method:
To create a liquid termite barrier, mix water and insecticide together and apply them to the affected area. This can be done with a pump sprayer or hose-end sprayer.
Method 2: Poisoned Bait
Another common way to get rid of termites is through poisoned bait. This method uses a slow-acting poison that takes a while to kill the termites.
The advantage of this method is that it can reach colonies that are hidden, or difficult to access.
How to Use this Method:
To use this method, you will need to purchase a bait station and poison. Place the bait station in an area where you have seen evidence of termites, such as mud tubes or damaged wood. Then, put the poison in the bait station. The poison will slowly kill the termites over time.
Method 3: Direct Chemical Treatment
If you have a small infestation, you can treat it with direct chemical treatment. This method uses a liquid insecticide that is applied to the affected area.
It is important to note that this method can be dangerous and should only be used by professionals.
How to Use this Method:
To use this method, mix the insecticide with water and apply it to the affected area. This can be done with a pump sprayer or hose-end sprayer.
Method 4: Boric Acid
Boric acid is a natural substance that is toxic to termites. It can be used as a standalone treatment, or in combination with other methods.
This method is safe for humans and pets. Its main disadvantage is that it can take a while to work.
How to Use this Method:
To use this method, you will need to purchase boric acid powder. Sprinkle the powder around the affected area and reapply as necessary. Be sure to avoid contact with eyes and skin.
Method 5: Beneficial Nematodes
Beneficial nematodes are tiny parasitic worms that kill termites. They are safe for humans and pets and can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other methods.
The main disadvantage of this method is that it can be difficult to find beneficial nematodes. This method is also not effective against dry wood termites.
How to Use this Method:
To use this method, you will need to purchase beneficial nematodes from a garden center or online retailer. Then, mix the nematodes with water and apply them to the affected area. Be sure to reapply as necessary.
Method 6: Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance that is made up of fossilized algae. It can be used as a standalone treatment, or in combination with other methods.
This method is safe for humans and pets, but it can take a while to work. This method is also not effective against dry wood termites.
How to Use this Method:
To use this method, you will need to purchase diatomaceous earth powder. Sprinkle the powder around the affected area and reapply as necessary. Be sure to avoid contact with eyes and skin.
Remember, getting rid of termites can be an arduous, often confusing, process. If you are not sure which method is best for your situation, it is best to consult a professional.
How Can You Stop Termites from Coming Back?
Now that you know how to get rid of termites, you may be wondering how you can prevent them from coming back. Here are a few tips:
- Seal any cracks, access points, or holes in your foundation - Seal any cracks, gaps around doors and windows, vents, or holes in your foundation. This can be done with a variety of methods, such as with caulk or expanding foam. This will help keep the termites out of your home.
- Remove any wood that is close to your home - Termites love to eat wood, so remove any wooden boards, fences, or decking that are close to your home.
- Monitor your property for signs of termites - Keep an eye out for mud tubes, damaged wood, and other signs of termites. If you see any evidence of an infestation, take action right away.
- Maintaining DIY treatment methods - If you use a DIY treatment method, be sure to reapply as necessary and monitor the area for signs of termites.
- Clear their food sources - One of the best ways to prevent termites is to remove their food sources. Be sure to clean up any fallen leaves, wood, or debris from around your home. You should also store firewood and lumber away from your house.
- Professional prevention plan - The best way to prevent termites is to have a professional prevention plan in place. This will help to keep them from ever infesting your home.
Are Termites Dangerous?
Termites can be a dangerous nuisance. They consume wood, paper, and other cellulose materials which can weaken the structure of your home over time. In some cases, termites have even been known to cause fires.
If you think you may have a termite problem, it is important to take action as soon as possible. It’s also important to know the difference between termites and ants, as they are often mistaken for each other.
What are the Different Types of Termites?
There are three main types of termites: dry wood, subterranean, and Formosan. Each type of termite requires a different treatment method.
- Drywood termites - Drywood termites infest wood that is above the ground level. They can quickly damage wooden furniture, floors, roofing, and other structural components of your home.
- Subterranean termites - Subterranean termites live in the ground and build mud tubes to reach their food source. These termites are more difficult to spot, but they can cause just as much damage as drywood termites.
- Formosan termites - Formosan termites are the most destructive type of termite. They are found in the southern United States, and can cause serious damage to your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1
What is the fastest way to get rid of termites naturally?
The fastest way to get rid of termites is to use a professional extermination company. They will be able to quickly and efficiently get rid of the termite infestation from your home.
2
What do termites hate the most?
What termites hate most is anything that will disrupt their food source. This includes things like wood sealant, diatomaceous earth, and boric acid.
3
How serious are termite infestations?
Termite infestations can be very serious. They can damage the structural integrity of your home and even cause fires. This is why it is important to take termite control seriously, and take action as soon as you see signs of an infestation.
4
Do termite baits really work?
Termite baits can be effective in controlling termites. However, they are not always 100% successful, and may require multiple applications to completely get rid of the termites. Termite bait stations should be placed in areas where termites are known to travel.
To get rid of termites, you will need to identify the type of termite you are dealing with and use a treatment method that is specific to that type. You can do this by consulting a professional, or doing your own research.
In some cases, you may need to take additional steps to prevent them from coming back. Remember: it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to termites.