Learn the Steps Required for DIY Termite Control
Is DIY Termite Control is for You?
The answer to this question will be different for everyone, and the right answer for you will depend on several factors. Termite treatments can be challenging and tedious, requiring specialized training and equipment. Many homeowners have successfully performed their own termite treatments using liquid treatments and/or baiting systems, while others have found it more prudent to pay a professional in order to save time, money, and potential frustration. Before you decide, you may want to consider the following:
- Situations that pose a greater challenge for termite treatments:
- Structures or homes built on a slab, because of the required drilling
- Structures or homes with a basement, because of the required drilling
- If you are going to need a clearance letter as proof of termite treatment for a mortgage company, this has to be done by a licensed Pest Control Operator
- Situations that are more conducive to do-it-yourself treatments:
- Treating your own fence posts, mail boxes, wooden sheds, and other wooden elements in the yard
- A block type home with enough crawl space clearance to easily apply chemicals
- Having a professional Pest Control Operator perform the liquid barrier and soil treatments, but you install your own baiting system
Learn How to Treat an Existing Termite Infestation
The most effective treatment for active termite infestations is a combination of applying a barrier/soil termiticide treatment, and installing a termite bait system. Keep in mind that a baiting program requires a lot of time, effort, and energy on your part to install the stations and then monitor them on a consistent basis, over a period of years. If monitoring is not done properly, the baiting program will fail. If you feel that you are not up to monitoring your bait stations, call in the professionals!
Treating an active termite infestation requires more than addressing the visible damage. Because termites often remain hidden inside walls, wood, and underground colony networks, successful control depends on reaching termites where they are actively feeding and nesting. Finding the best termite treatment to do it yourself starts with identifying the type of termite present and selecting a treatment method designed to eliminate the source of the infestation.
Liquid termiticides, termite foams, and wood treatments are commonly used to target active termite activity within and around structures. Many pest management professionals rely on products considered among the best termite killer solutions because they allow termites to contact treated areas and transfer the active ingredient throughout the colony. Using the proper products and application methods can help stop ongoing damage and achieve more complete colony control.
Products needed for Step 2
Learn About Preventative Treatments for Termites
The same combination of termite treatments used for controlling an active infestation will go a long way to prevent future infestations.
Applying a liquid termiticide to your foundation soil will create a barrier to protect your home that can last up to 5 years if undisturbed.
Read how to do your own barrier/soil treatment to learn the finer points of using a liquid termiticide around your home.
Termite baiting systems are all the talk on the pest control market as an effective means of managing and preventing termites. Baiting is not a barrier, so it should not be used as a stand-alone treatment, but baiting will drastically reduce the chances of termites making their way into your home.
Check out our article on how to do your own termite baiting for more pro tips.