Termite Control and Treatment Tips
Posted on: 8 April 2021
Are you worried about termite infestation at your home? Read the article below to understand why termites infest your home and how to go about termite control.
Causes of Termite Infestation
Termites are attracted to moist conditions. Therefore, a leaking pipe or gutter at your home will provide an excellent environment for the pest to build a colony. Humid conditions in your basement and attic will also attract termites. Termites feed on cellulose found in wood products. Therefore, if you use untreated wood to construct installations such as decks and patios, do not be too surprised to find termites eating the wood. Firewood and bushes around your home could also attract termites.
Some areas are prone to termite infestation. For example, termites that enjoy humid and moist conditions build their colonies in coastal areas. Others enjoy dry conditions; hence, you will find them in warm areas of the country.
DIY Termite Control
Below are a few ways to deal with a termite infestation at your home:
- Remove termite mud tubes to expose the termites to sunlight so that they will die of dehydration.
- Purchase termite traps and place them in termite-infested areas in your home — the termites will die once they eat the poison in the traps.
- Clear bushes around your house to prevent the pests from coming into your home, and place firewood a few meters from your house.
- Properly ventilate your attic and basement to prevent humid conditions.
- Repair leaking pipes and gutters.
Professional Extermination
For severe infestations, contact a professional exterminator. Below is what you should expect from the exterminator.
Inspection
The exterminator will inspect your home to determine the extent of the infestation. They will then present you with a report detailing how to exterminate the pest and avoid future infestation.
Termite Treatment
The exterminator may use liquid termiticides to kill the termites and prevent further infestation. They will use special tools to drill and pump the liquid in hard-to-reach areas such as your foundation. Termiticides create an artificial barrier that prevents the termites from accessing your home. Most exterminators will recommend regular inspections to evaluate the success of the termite control methods.
If you plan to build a new house, place physical termite barriers in the foundation to prevent termites from getting into your home. Chemical barriers could also be sprayed before pouring the slab.
A severe termite infestation could compromise the structural integrity of your home. Getting regular inspections, using treated wood, placing physical and chemical barriers are sure ways of preventing termite infestation.
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