DIY Termite Treatment: How Effective Will It Be?
Posted on: 29 August 2018
Termites are menacing pests that can devalue your investment and compromise the structural integrity of your building. Some termites feed on natural materials used in the construction of structures and furniture while others feed on materials such as organic matter and drywall. If you have had these creatures in your home and applied some treatment without professional help, it is important to be sure that the infestation has cleared. That's because termites destroy structures silently, and you won't notice the damage until after it's too late. In this light, it is important to understand these factors which determine the effectiveness of termite treatment.
Type of product used
Various types of termite treatment products exist on the market today. The kind you choose will be a great determinant of the effectiveness of the treatment and whether you have to worry about a future infestation. Most homeowners use termiticides for DIY treatment. These can either be water or solvent-based. They are applied in and around buildings to create a chemical barrier that prevents termites from accessing the property. Chemical treatments also kill termites that are already on the building.
There are various kinds of termiticides on the market. Some can keep termites away for a decade while others will only last a few years. Only an expert can help you determine the best product which has the right ingredients in the right percentages to ensure complete control of the termites.
Scope of application
The manner in which you apply a termite treatment will determine how effective it will be. You need to familiarise yourself with the structure to identify potential areas of entry. Missing certain spots during the application process can render the treatment ineffective. For example, if you leave out even the smallest gaps, the termites can come in without being affected by the chemical barrier.
Carrying out a termite control exercise is both time-consuming and costly. Don't embark on it if you don't have the necessary expertise to identify the movement patterns and use the treatment on all the potential points of entry.
Future renovations
As you renovate your property, you may demolish parts of the structure, move the earth or even build an extension. All these activities disrupt the soil, and they can interfere with the chemical barrier that you applied. This will create a loophole for the termites to access your property. If you undertake major structural renovations and earthmoving projects, it would be ideal to reapply the treatment to guarantee its effectiveness.
Termites are subtle insects, and you may not be able to ascertain the effectiveness of DIY treatment. That's why it is advisable to hire a professional pest control company for extermination so that you can get peace of mind. Reach out to a place that performs termite inspections for more information.
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