Do-It-Yourself Termite Control Tips
Thursday, May 02, 2013If you notice any signs of termite infestation in your house, pest control treatment should be started as soon as possible. Termite infestation can prove to be dangerous for your household as a swarm can easily destroy furniture in your home. Here are some termite control tips.
First, watch out for termite tubes. The presence of pencil-thick tubes made of mud on the exterior surfaces of your home is a clear indication that there is a termite infestation. Termites live underground but they have to travel from their colonies to look for food. They build these tubes to shelter their progress.
The second step in do it yourself termite control is determining the type of termite swarm nesting close to your property and choosing the right method of treatment for that particular type of termite. There are three main types of termites; the subterranean, Formosan and the dry-wood termite. The later are easily identified by their fecal pellets which closely resemble sawdust. The dry-wood termites are mostly found in the attic but can easily spread fast to other parts of the house.
If on the other hand you notice mud tunnels made by termites on the walls or near the basement, you can be sure that a subterranean termites' swarm is close nearby. These require moisture for survival and that is why they are mostly found underground, in damp locations or wet wood in the house. Subterranean termites are larger than the dry-wood ones. The Formosan termite is found in the southern parts of the US but is more common in parts of Asia. The identification of the termite type is important as control measures vary depending on the type.
As you're interested in the best pest control measures, it is comparative for you to undertake a study on the available options. You can do an online check on the appropriate termite treatment method. The most common methods of termite control include fumigation, liquid treatments, termite baits and borate.
Liquid pesticides: This is the oldest method used for termite extermination. The pesticides are either in two forms; repellent and non-repellent. Repellents prevent entry of termites in your property whereas non-repellents kill termites that have infested your premises. Liquid pesticides for termite control also referred to as 'termiticides' are pumped in the cracks of buildings and on the ground.
Termite baits are a much newer concept in termite extermination. Other than being environmental friendly, this method is very effective. This is how it works; the bait which consists of a number of plastic stakes is inserted in the ground at strategic points around the property. The stakes contain growth inhibitors which result in eventual death of the termite.
Preventive measures such as borate treatment should also be considered. In borate treatment, sodium borate is mixed with water and then applied on all wooden surfaces. The chemical kills the protozoa present in the digestive tract of the termites consequently, the termites die of starvation.
Unlike other termite extermination methods, fumigation is meant to combat dry-wood termites. The method is also best left to professionals. Tip: divert water away from your property to prevent it from accumulating around your home's foundation. This way you'll make it less prone to termite infestation.
About the author: PestBusters was founded on the mission that the company would set the standard for the Pest Control Industry. Established in 1991, the company quickly became one of the most trusted names in the hospitality industry. PestBusters has maintained an unparalleled reputation for quality since its inception.
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