How to Get Rid of Termites: A Guide for Homeowners

They are known as the ‘silent destroyers’ for a reason. Termites can eat for 24 hours a day, every day. If you suspect that their chosen meal is in your home, take action fast to avoid expensive damage.

Did you know that termites cause over $5 billion in property damage every year? And often, your insurance will not cover the costs of termite damage. So, if you notice signs of termites, get rid of them fast.

This guide on how to get rid of termites covers everything you need to know so that you can relax in your home once more.

1. Determine the Types of Termites

There are over 2000 known types of termites, and termite removal is not the same for all. So, if you notice signs of termites in your home, inspect the infestation. For example, drywood termites do not create mud tubes; they often leave behind small digested wood pellets.

Knowing the type of termites in your home can help make termite treatment more effective. If you are unsure, you can also contact a professional pest control company to inspect the problem.

2. Try a Termite Trap

Termite baits are a popular way to get rid of termites. Most baits include poison, which the termites ingest. The poison stops the termite’s growth, which eventually kills them.

As it is a delayed reaction, the termite bait with insecticide also gets taken to the termite colony. It means the termite bait often reaches more termites, which can end termite infestation in your home.

3. Beneficial Nematodes

A popular natural termite treatment is to use beneficial nematodes, which are microscopic roundworms. They are natural parasites that can enter the termite and release gut bacteria that poisons the termite. You can apply nematodes inside the home or in the garden, following treatment instructions.

4. Use a Barrier Treatment

You also apply barrier treatments to materials termites like to eat, which termites cannot detect. It is poisonous to the termite and quickly spreads to other termites. It can also prevent more termites from entering the home.

5. Call Pest Control

There comes a time when you need professional support for termite removal. It is safer and more efficient to contact a professional service such as Reynolds Pest Management. Pest control services have the equipment, training, and experience to remove termites and prevent reinfestation.

If you are unsure about the types of termites you have or your infestation has spread into the home, contact a professional service to help. Many chemical treatments can be harmful to use without experience. And professional services have access to other treatment options, such as fuming.