Most pest control methods involve some sort of chemical solution that kills off the pest. These chemicals have to be strong enough to kill the termites, but safe enough to use in and around the home. Let’s take a look at the various termite treatments and their associated health risks.
Chemical barriers
Chemical barriers are most commonly used against subterranean termite infestations. They are basically termiticides that are injected into the ground surrounding the home, which will create an effective barrier that cuts off all contact between an underground termite colony and the building. The termiticides are injected into a trench, which is then covered up. This procedure makes the chemical barrier very safe, and the termiticides used are specifically designed to have a very low environmental impact. Even the area where the trench was dug up will be completely safe for animals, plants and people after the installation process.
Baiting systems
Baiting systems are perhaps the safest termite control option available. They are composed of several plastic receptacles that contain poisoned cellulose and which are installed in the ground. The poisoned cellulose will only come into contact with the plastic receptacle and the termites which consume it, meaning that there’s very little chance of secondary poisoning, unless someone opens the receptacle, picks up the laced cellulose and consumes it.
Localized treatments
Localized treatments consist of the application of an insecticide directly on top of an infested piece of wood. This type of treatment is used against small drywood and dampwood termite infestations, since one application of this treatment will destroy the colony. The treatment is very safe when applied by a pro who is equipped with protective gear, and will likely require the treated area to be vacated for a few hours.
Fumigation
Fumigation is the most extensive and the most expensive termite control procedure, and it is used to deal with large drywood and dampwood termite infestations. During this process, the home is tented and gaseous termiticide is released inside the tent. The home has to be vacated during the process, but after it is complete, the home is as safe as ever. A pest control team will explain to you all the steps of the procedure and any cleanup that will be necessary.
For more information about the various termite control processes out there, or if you have a termite infestation in your home, contact us today.
