Methods Used For Termite Control
There are several termite control options out there, but you can group them into two categories: preconstruction and postconstruction treatments. Preconstruction treatments, as the name suggests, are applied as a building is under construction and shortly after the construction process is complete. Most of these treatments are applied only once, and can only be applied during the construction process (such as any physical barriers that may be installed). Liquid termiticides may also be used at this point.
Liquid termiticide treatments
Liquid termiticides are the most used method when it comes to termite control, and they can be used for both pre and postconstruction treatments. Termiticides are basically insecticides that have been designed to specifically deal with termites. They are applied in the soil directly under and around the foundation of the home. As termites attempt to tunnel through the soil, they will become poisoned and will avoid the area in the future. A good soil-applied termiticide should last anywhere from eight years to more than 12 years.
Foam treatments
Foam treatments are used as supplements to other treatments, and they can be injected into voids and cracks within a building and its foundation. Due to the consistency of the foam, it can travel laterally and vertically, reaching areas of a building that would be nearly impossible to reach with other treatments. The foam then breaks down leaving the inner surfaces of the cracks coated in termiticide.
Wood preservatives
This type of treatment is generally used for outdoor wooden structures, to protect elements such as landscape timbers and posts which will be in direct contact with the ground. This type of treatment is also used to protect exterior steps, decks, fences and any other extra-building construction. Treated wood may also be used for construction elements within the home which are not in direct contact with the ground for extra protection against termites.
Baiting stations
Baiting stations use slow-acting, non-repellent termiticides that are injected into pieces of wood that would attract termites. You have two types of termite baiting stations: aboveground and in-ground. The latter type is the most common.
In-ground baiting stations are installed on the outside of a building, and foraging termites will discover these stations and start to eat and share the poisoned bait. This kickstarts a slow process that will eventually destroy the colony. When these baiting stations are installed and maintained properly, they are a very effective long-term termite control method. To boost the effect of this method however, pest control specialists will use it in conjunction with liquid treatments in order to destroy a colony faster and protect the property right away.
Do you have a termite infestation?
Most of these methods require professional tools or expertise, so if you have a termite infestation, it is best that you work with a professional. Contact us today with any questions you may have, or if you would like to schedule an inspection.
