Termites are a major pest problem that can cause severe damage to homes and structures. While there are treatments available to eliminate termite infestations, some methods can actually make the problem worse. Here are some things you should avoid doing when dealing with termites.
Using the Wrong Chemical Treatments
Certain household chemicals like bleach, gasoline, and kerosene should never be used against termites. These products are not EPA-registered pesticides made specifically for termite control. Not only are they ineffective, but they can pollute soil and groundwater if used improperly.
Sticking to professional-grade termiticides labeled for termite treatment is crucial. Products containing fipronil, imidacloprid, or permethrin are common choices. Using the wrong chemical puts your home and health at risk.
Disturbing Termites During Treatment
It’s tempting to poke, prod, or otherwise disrupt termite activity once you spot it in your home. Resist the urge. Disturbing termite tubes, nests, swarms, or other signs will make them spread out and do even more damage.
The best approach is to leave activity undisturbed and call a licensed pest control operator to treat the infestation. Trying to disrupt termite workings yourself may just push them further into your walls or structure.
Ignoring Signs of Infestation
Catching termite problems early makes treatment much simpler. But ignoring the signs of termites allows infestations to expand and worsen over time.
Don’t overlook telltale signs like mud tubes on foundation walls, swarms of winged termites, wooden structures riddled with tiny holes, or piles of sawdust-like “frass.” Acting quickly improves your chances of eliminating termites before major damage occurs.
Delaying Professional Treatment
DIY termite treatments using over-the-counter products may seem like an affordable option, but they are rarely effective for full-blown infestations. Professional pest control utilizing specialized tools, termiticides, and application techniques get far superior results.
At the first sign of termites, call a licensed pro to inspect and treat the issue. The longer you delay professional treatment, the more time termites have to multiply and spread.
Assuming Termites Are Gone After Treatment
Treatment does not instantly vanquish a termite infestation. It takes time for termiticides to fully spread through all of the closed-off spaces where termites live. Ongoing monitoring and follow-up treatments are usually needed.
Just because you no longer see termite activity does not mean they are completely gone. Assume termites are still present until thorough inspections confirm the infestation has been eliminated. Avoid complacency after treating for termites.
Not Identifying the Termite Species
There are different species of termites, each with their own behaviors and threats to homes. Identifying the specific type of termite is crucial for planning an effective treatment strategy. The two main species are:
- Subterranean termites – Most common type in North America. Nest underground and enter structures through the foundation.
- Drywood termites – Less common. Establish colonies inside wood without needing soil contact.
Subterranean termites need soil access severed by trenching or drilling. Drywood termites live entirely inside wood, so fumigation is required. Correct identification guides treatment.
Assuming All Termites Are the Same
There are over 2,500 known termite species globally. The threats, behaviors, and effective control methods vary significantly between different types. Assuming any termite infestation can be addressed the same “blanket” way often backfires.
Key differences exist between subterranean, drywood, dampwood, and other termite species. The insect’s biology and colony needs dictate the best treatment techniques. Proper species ID and tailored plans prevent botched control efforts.
Not Finding the Colony
Treating visible signs of termite activity in one area does little good if the main colony remains undiscovered. Termites can have multiple access points and expansive networks inside structures.
A thorough inspection is needed to pinpoint the colony’s location(s) before treatment. Eliminating the core colony deprives other areas of replenishment. Locating all sites is key for full control.
Using a One-Size-Fits-All Approach
generalized treatment method cannot match the effectiveness of a plan tailored to your specific property and situation. Custom strategies consider factors like:
- Construction style and materials
- Extent of infestation
- Termite species and behaviors
- Environmental factors
- Areas vulnerable to retreatment
A strategic acute-and-bait combination approach, for example, stops spread while eliminating main colonies. Reliable termite elimination requires customization.
Not Correcting Conditions Conducive to Termites
Certain home conditions allow termites to thrive. Fixing these issues through exclusion techniques limits reinfestation risk after treatment. Key steps include:
- Repairing moisture problems
- Sealing foundation cracks
- Improving drainage near home
- Moving mulch/debris away from foundation
- Trimming vegetation touching structure
Taking away termites’ needs for shelter, water, and food bolsters treatment effectiveness for the long run.
Using Home Remedies and DIY Treatments
You may hear of home remedies like orange oil or tea tree oil for termites. Unfortunately, significant infestations require stronger solutions.
Professional termiticides, specialized application techniques, and insecticides like fipronil and imidacloprid are proven effective. DIY attempts often just make matters worse.
Not Getting Annual Termite Inspections
Termites are stealthy pests capable of causing major damage before any signs appear. Annual inspections by a qualified professional help detect termites early before they spread.
Checking for termite presence once a year provides peace of mind and improves odds of catching infestations before they mushroom. Skipping regular inspections is risky.
Trying Partial Treatments on Your Own
Attempting your own liquid soil drench, foam injection, or other partial treatment leaves gaps termites exploit. Doing half the job just causes them to move around barriers.
Partial treatments require professional expertise and full termite colony elimination to work. Otherwise, termites avoid treated areas and continue destruction.
Assuming Wood Treatment Adds Much Protection
Treating lumber and wood used in construction provides a degree of termite prevention. However, it does not make a home immune to infestation.
Termiticides in treated wood repel and kill some termites but leach away over time. Regular inspections and professional control are still advised for homes built with treated wood.
Conclusion
Mishandling termite issues can amplify damage, costs, and treatment difficulties. Avoiding the mistakes above improves your chances of effective termite elimination and prevention. Partnering with a professional pest control company remains the best way to defend your home from destructive termite infestations.