Termites can cause major structural damage to homes, so it is important to take steps to prevent them. Knowing how often to treat for termites is a key part of any termite prevention plan. In this article, we will look at the facts on termite prevention and help you determine how often you should treat your home for these pesky pests.
Types of Termites
- Subterranean Termites: These are the most common species of termites and live in the soil. They build mud tubes to travel up the sides of buildings to get to the wood.
- Drywood Termites: These species of termites live in dry, undecayed wood. They require less moisture than the subterranean species and can survive in furniture, wall voids and attic spaces.
- Formosan Termites: This species is found mainly in southern states and is the most destructive of all termites. They can consume a large amount of wood in a short period of time.
- Dampwood Termites: These species of termites inhabit damp, decaying wood. They are found mainly in coastal areas and do not require contact with the soil.
Drywood Termites
- Treatments must be conducted by a licensed pest control professional.
- Regular inspections should be done to detect early signs of an infestation.
- Depending on the severity of the infestation, treatments may involve fumigation, localized treatment or spot treatments.
- Fumigation is typically used to treat large infestations.
- Localized treatments involve injecting a termiticide into the galleries of the wood where the termites live.
- Spot treatments involve injecting the termiticide directly into the infested wood.
Subterranean Termites
- Subterranean termites can cause significant damage to your property if left untreated.
- They live in large colonies underground and feed on wood and other cellulose materials.
- They usually enter buildings through cracks in the foundation or through exposed wood.
- They may also be brought in through infested firewood or other wood products.
- Subterranean termites require treatment every three to five years to ensure they don’t cause damage.
- Regular inspection and treatment of your home is the best way to prevent infestations.
- Treatments may include liquid pesticides, baiting systems, or soil treatments.
Signs of a Termite Infestation
Subterranean termites are one of the most common types of termites in the US, and they can cause a significant amount of damage to a home. Early detection is important in order to prevent further damage, so knowing what signs to look for is essential.
The most common sign of a termite infestation is the presence of mud tubes on walls, or near the foundations of a home. Termites build these mud tubes to protect themselves from predators, and to regulate the temperature and humidity of the environment.
Wood damage is another common sign of a termite infestation. Look for signs of hollowed and weakened wood, or wood with a hollow sound when tapped. Also, look for any bubbling or cracking paint on walls and ceilings, as this could be caused by termites eating through the wood beneath.
Termite wings are another sign of an infestation. Termites shed their wings after they swarm, so look for piles of wings near windows and doors. If you find termite wings, it is likely that they have already established a colony in your home.
Finally, look for any discarded termite shells. Termite shells are usually oval-shaped and have a thin, papery texture. You may find them in areas near the infestation, such as near windows and doors or on the floor.
These are some of the most common signs of a termite infestation. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to contact a pest control professional for an inspection and to get advice on how to treat for termites.
Treatment Options
The most common treatments for termites include chemical-based treatments and bait systems. Chemical treatments involve applying a liquid termiticide to the soil around the home, as well as in any visible termite galleries or nests. Bait systems involve placing bait in the ground to attract and control termites. The bait stations are regularly checked and maintained to ensure that the termites are being controlled. Other treatments include physical barriers, such as installing metal flashing or a concrete barrier around the perimeter of the home. Additionally, some homeowners opt for natural treatments, such as diatomaceous earth, which can be effective in controlling termites.
Chemical Treatments
Chemical treatments are the most common form of termite control. It involves the injection of soil with a termiticide to kill existing termites and prevent new colonies from establishing themselves. In most cases, a professional inspector will apply the chemical, either with a pump or by hand. Depending on the type of termiticide used, the treatment may last for several years. It is important to follow the instructions of the inspector regarding the type of termiticide used and how often it should be applied.
Physical Barriers
Physical barriers are an effective way to prevent termites from entering the home. This can be done with the use of metal or plastic barriers which are placed around the perimeter of the home and into the soil. The barrier should be at least 6 inches deep and be made of a material that won’t corrode over time. These barriers are also effective at keeping other pests out as well. The barriers should be checked regularly to ensure they are still intact and not damaged.
| Barrier | Depth | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Metal/plastic | 6 inches | Non-corrosive |
Natural Treatments
| Treatment | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Borates | Borates should be applied yearly. |
| Nematodes | Nematodes should be applied every two years. |
| Vinegar | Vinegar should be applied every two to three months. |
| Diatomaceous Earth | Diatomaceous Earth should be applied every three to four months. |
Natural treatments such as Borates, Nematodes, Vinegar, and Diatomaceous Earth can be used to control termite infestations. Borates should be applied yearly, Nematodes should be applied every two years, Vinegar should be applied every two to three months, and Diatomaceous Earth should be applied every three to four months.
How Often to Treat for Termites
| Treatment | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Preventive | Annually |
| Inspection | Every 2-3 Years |
| Control | Every 2-3 Years |
Preventive treatments should be done annually to keep termites away and reduce the risk of an infestation. To detect an existing infestation, regular inspections should be done every 2-3 years. Control treatments should be done every 2-3 years to maintain the infestation.
Drywood Termites
| Treatment Type | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Inspection | Annual |
| Spot Treatment | When needed |
| Fumigation | When needed |
Drywood termites are a common type of termite that infest dry, undecayed wood. They live in colonies and can cause extensive damage to homes. They are most commonly found in warm, humid areas like the southern United States. Treatment for drywood termites requires a combination of inspection, spot treatments, and fumigation. An annual inspection is recommended to identify any infestations and monitor for any new activity. Spot treatments can be used to target specific areas of the home, while fumigation is used to treat an entire structure when necessary.
Subterranean Termites
| Treatment | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Soil Treatment | Once a year |
| Wood Treatment | Once in every 5 years |
| Spot Treatment | Once in every 3-4 years |
Subterranean termites live in the soil and build mud tubes to reach the wood above. The most effective way to prevent damage from these termites is to do a soil treatment with liquid termiticide. This treatment should be done once a year. If the soil is contaminated with termites, a spot treatment can be done to quickly eliminate them. Spot treatment should be done once in every 3-4 years. Wood treatment with borate should be done once in every 5 years.
Can You Treat for Termites Yourself?
| Treatment | DIY | Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Liquid Termiticides | Yes, but with limited success | Yes, preferred method |
| Baiting | No | Yes, effective and eco-friendly |
| Physical Barriers | Yes | Yes, more effective |
Termite treatments can be done by a professional or by yourself. Liquid termiticides are available in home improvement stores and are effective against existing colonies. However, it is important to understand the limitations of DIY treatments, such as not being able to reach termites that are in hard-to-reach areas. Baiting systems are not recommended for DIY treatments, as it requires specialized equipment and knowledge to ensure that the bait is properly placed and monitored. Physical barriers such as foam, metal, or plastic can be used to prevent termites from entering your home, but it is recommended to hire a professional to do this as a more effective barrier can be installed.
Do-it-Yourself Treatment Tips
- Familiarize yourself with the signs of a termite infestation.
- Inspect your property for signs of termites on a regular basis.
- Treat for termites with a liquid insecticide, foam or dust products.
- Seal any cracks or crevices in the foundation of your home to prevent termites from entering.
- Remove any wood, paper or other cellulose materials from your yard.
- Remove any dead trees or stumps from your property.
- Address any moisture issues in your home as this can attract termites.
- Ventilate crawl spaces and attics to reduce humidity and moisture levels.
- Store firewood away from your home.
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris.
- Regularly inspect window and door frames for signs of termite damage.
Professional Treatment Tips
| Treatment | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Inspection | Annually |
| Baiting | Every 1-2 years |
| Soil Treatment | Every 3-5 years |
Termite control requires regular monitoring and treatments. It is important to consult a professional pest control company when dealing with potential infestations. A trained technician can identify the type of termite, assess the severity of the infestation, and determine the best treatment plan. The following are some general guidelines for professional treatment frequency:
- Inspection – It is recommended to have a professional inspection of your property annually.
- Baiting – Baiting should be done every 1-2 years for ongoing termite control.
- Soil Treatment – Depending on the severity of the infestation, soil treatment should be done every 3-5 years.
It is important to note that the frequency of treatments may vary depending on the type of termite, the severity of the infestation, and the environment around the property. It is always best to consult with a professional pest control company to determine the best treatment plan for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you treat your house for termites to prevent an infestation?
The recommended frequency of termite treatment is every 5-7 years. To ensure prevention of an infestation, it is important to have a professional inspect your home for signs of termites annually. During the inspection, the professional should check for entry points, signs of termite activity, and potential signs of an infestation. Treatment should be performed if any signs of an infestation are found.
What is the best time to spray for termites?
The best time to spray for termites is during the springtime when the temperatures are warm enough for termites to be active. It is important to spray in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are still relatively cool. It is also important to spray when the soil is moist and the termites are most active.
How Often Do You Need To Treat For Termites To Keep Them Away?
Treating for termites involves a combination of prevention and control. Preventive measures, such as reducing sources of moisture, can help keep termites away. If termites are already present, controlling them involves applying pesticides or baits to the affected area. The frequency of treatments will depend on the severity of the infestation and local environmental conditions. For high-risk areas, quarterly treatments may be necessary. In low-risk areas, treatments may be needed every year or two.
When is the right time to treat for termites?
The best time to treat for termites is as soon as they are detected. Signs of an infestation include mud tubes, wood damage, and discarded wings. If there is any suspicion of termites, immediate action should be taken to identify and eliminate the problem. It is important to inspect your home regularly for signs of termites and take action quickly if any are present. If left untreated, the damage caused by termites can be extensive and costly.
How often do you have to spray for termites to ensure prevention?
In order to prevent termite infestations from occurring, experts recommend scheduling regular termite treatments every three to five years. A certified pest control professional should use liquid termiticides in order to form a barrier around the home that repels termites. The barrier should be applied around the foundation, windows and doors, and other places that termites may enter the home. If a termite problem is already present, more frequent treatments may be necessary in order to eradicate the infestation.
Conclusion
Termite prevention and control is an important part of protecting your home and property. The best way to prevent termite infestations is to have regular inspections from a professional pest control company. These inspections should be done at least once a year, and more often if you live in an area where termite activity is common. If you find that you have a termite infestation, prompt treatment is essential to prevent further damage to your home.
