If termite infestation worries you, there is a good chance you are not alone. Termites can cause severe structural damage to your property. Moreover, you are likely to spend a lot of money treating them. You can hire a termite control specialist to help you treat termites. To enjoy cheaper services, make sure that you get a quote for termite control services from various professionals.
Here is how to identify and control termites using appropriate treatment methods and through effective prevention measures. You can also open this termite inspection guide to know how to eliminate termites for good.
How Do You Know there are Termites in your property?
To control termites, you need to be alert. Most individuals discover termites when it is too late. They rarely emerge from mud tubes, oil, or food sources. You will only notice a swarm.
Fortunately, there are several ways to identify termites. For instance, you can check for open spots on exposed wood using a screwdriver or trace termite swarms. Piles of shed wings are a good indicator.
Sometimes termites are mistaken for ants. The two differ in several ways. Ants have bent antennae, and the wings are not equal in length. Termites, on the other hand, have straight antennae and the wings are equal in size.
How to Prevent Termite Infestation?
To prevent termite infestation, you need to make your property’s structure less attractive to them. You can achieve this by using a concrete foundation and leaving space for ventilation between the wood and soil. You can also cover exposed surfaces with a metal barrier or a sealant. Here is a quick summary of how to prevent a termite infestation:
• Avoid piling firewood next to your property.
• Inspect your property regularly.
• Do not plant trees or shrubs too close to your property.
• Ensure that you fix any leaks.
• Ensure that vents are free from blockage.
• Ensure that the soil around the foundation is dry.
• Fill all cracks with cement or grout.
Different Types of Termite Treatments
Here are the different types of treatments you can use to eliminate termites.
Non-Chemical Treatments
These methods do not use insecticides. You can install a physical barrier or use biological control agents such as fungi. Effective physical barriers include steel mesh and sand. It is important to note that EPA does not regulate these methods.
Chemical Treatments
Before any pesticide enters the market, the EPA must confirm if it poses any risk to the environment or human health. Here are the most common forms of chemical treatments.
Convectional Barrier Treatments
The soil-applied barrier is the most common method that individuals use to treat termite infestations. Termiticides used for this type of treatment must place a label stating its use. Improper use of these treatments can cause contamination of any surrounding water. It is why it is vital to hire a licensed and professional pest control specialist.
Termite Baits
Termite baits help minimize insecticides’ usage, therefore reducing their impact on the environment and human health. They depend on cellulose baits containing a less concentrated insecticide.
Wood Treatment
Individuals spray borates on wood to protect it from termites.
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Are Termiticides Safe?
Most Termiticides are very toxic. It is, therefore, essential to follow instructions on the label to the latter. Hiring pest management professionals reduce the risks involved and maximize effectiveness.
To handle termite infestations, ensure that you choose a pest management professional and carefully read the label on the pesticide product.