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MAY 25 2022 / PEST AND TERMITE
There are a few different types of termite treatments available on the market today. But, how can you know which one is the best?
First of all, let's clear out something.
Anyone that has experienced a termite infestation can tell you that the damage these tiny but powerful pests leave behind is not only heartbreaking but is also very costly for the homeowner.
Out of all of the harmful pest infestations, termites are the hardest to detect without proper training; therefore, the size of the infestation and the damage left behind are often significant.
Last year, over a billion dollars, was spent in the United States by homeowners for termite extermination and repair work.
With any pest problem in a business or home, it is essential to get ahead of it as soon as you possibly can.
The question is, how?
There are many choices out there for both elimination and control of future termite problems.
Soil treatments involve applying a chemical to the ground around your home to create a barrier that termites cannot cross.
This type of treatment is usually required when you first build your home, as well as every few years after that.
Soil treatments are also considered a form of chemical barrier and the main objective is to stop termites from tunneling through.
Barrier treatments, on the other hand, involve creating a chemical and/or physical barrier (usually a sheet of metal or plastic) that termites cannot penetrate.
While both soil and barrier treatments are effective at preventing termites from damaging your home, it is important to note that they will not kill existing termites.
If you already have termites in your home, you will need to contact a pest control professional for further assistance.
Termite baiting stations are an effective and eco-friendly way to treat termite infestations.
Termites are attracted to the bait, which is then carried back to the colony and fed to the other termites. This eventually destroys the colony, preventing further termite damage to your home.
These baiting stations are typically placed every 10-15 feet around the perimeter of a property, and they should be checked every few months to ensure that they are still effective.
If you think you may have a termite problem, contact a pest control professional to assess the situation and recommend the best treatment option.
Fumigation is an intrusive method of termite control that involves injecting a lethal gas into the soil around and under a structure to kill termites in their nests.
Soil fumigants are the most common type of termite treatment products used in the United States today.
Although fumigation is considered one of the best methods for complete termite control, sadly it does have some drawbacks.
Chief among these is the fact that it is an extremely painstaking process that requires a lot of preparation on the part of homeowners.
In most cases, homeowners must leave their homes for several days while the treatment is taking place, which can be disruptive to work and family schedules.
Additionally, fumigation can be expensive, as it is often charged by the square foot, and even though it will eliminate any current colonies, it won't guarantee your home is safe from future infestations.
First of all, it's crucial to perform a complete initial inspection of your home or business by a certified professional.
Why?
An experienced exterminator will be able to determine which system is the most effective and make the most sense for your specific circumstances.
At American Pest, our pest experts are trained to understand termites' biology and behavior.
They will go over each process with you and depending on the severity of the infestation, they will recommend one of these two effective solutions for termite control:
An ecologically responsible baiting system that American Pest has been using for over 15 years. It successfully targets only termites, making the system safe for any wildlife or pets that may come across the baiting station.
Sentricon® with Always Active™ attracts termites to the station, the termites then take the bait back to the rest of the colony.
Over time, the colony is eliminated. This system requires no liquids or drilling and uses minimal products.
With consistent monitoring by an American Pest professional, you can count on Sentricon® with Always Active™ to prevent future termite activity.
This is also a good choice for termite elimination. Altriset provides a liquid barrier around the entire building several inches below the soil.
Termites are then attracted to the spot and take the product back to the rest of the colony.
Over approximately three months, the termite colony will be eliminated.
This option, as well as all of the products that American Pest uses, is safe for pets and family members as well as the surrounding ecosystem.
Check out this video if you want to see the comparison between these two types of treatments.
Termites are attracted to wood and can even provide them with an entry point.
It is recommended that you store wood at least 20 feet away from the building and at least 5 inches off the ground.
Also, make sure to remove any dead tree stumps in the yard as this will attract termites too.
Be sure to clean your gutters at least every spring and fall to ensure they are clear of debris and leaves that often cause them to clog.
Just one section of a clogged gutter can cause water to pool and fill your insulation with moisture that termites love.
Mulch retains moisture, which attracts these wood-destroying pest, and if placed right up against the foundation of your home you are asking for a termite infestation.
Contact American Pest today to set up your inspection and to hear how we can help eliminate termites from your life and help you to prevent further damage to your property.
