Home Remedies for Termites
Can you DIY termite treatment?
Termite infestations oftentimes do not make themselves known until their severity has exceeded the abilities of most home-remedy treatments. Termites are extremely destructive and can cause costly damage to the home when left untreated for long periods of time. Termites also tend to reinfest areas after control methods fail.
Termite Sprays, Baits & Other DIY Products
There are several at-home termite control methods available that you can find in stores, each with its own application and effectiveness.
1. Termite Spray
Termite sprays are designed to create a barrier around your home or target visible termites directly. They work by repelling or killing termites on contact, but their effectiveness may be limited to surface-level issues and might not address hidden colonies.
2. Termite Baits
Termite baits, on the other hand, are strategically placed around the property to attract termites. These baits contain slow-acting insecticides that termites carry back to their colonies, eventually killing the entire colony over time.
3. Termite Foams & Dusts
Other products, such as termite foams and dusts, can be applied into cracks and crevices where termites may be hiding.
4. Essential Oils
You may also consider using essential oils like orange, neem, clove, and garlic to deter termites. These natural alternatives are generally non-toxic to humans and pets, making them a safer choice for home pest control. Simply apply a few drops to cotton balls and place them in areas where termites are active.
5. Boric Acid (Borax)
Boric acid can be a versatile tool in assisting with termite control. Use it as a powder to directly target infestations, or mix it with water for a spray. Its dual action of dehydrating and disabling termites makes it an effective natural solution.
6. White Vinegar
You can also try making a DIY termite spray by mixing 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, 1/2 cup of water and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Again, the effectiveness for sprays may be limited.
Pros & Cons of DIY Termite Control
Potential Pros of Do It Yourself Termite Control
DIY termite control methods offer several potential advantages, such as lower upfront costs and the convenience of applying treatments at your own pace. These methods can be effective for minor termite issues or for preventive measures. Products like boric acid or termite baits can help reduce termite activity if used correctly.
Potential Cons of Do It Yourself Termite Control
However, their effectiveness is often limited, as they may only repel termites or address surface-level infestations. The size and hidden nature of termite colonies make it difficult for DIY treatments to fully eradicate the problem, and untreated areas can allow the infestation to persist. While DIY solutions can provide initial relief, investing in professional pest control services often proves more effective for comprehensive and long-term termite management.
Pros & Cons of Professional Termite Control
Potential Pros of Professional Termite Control
Professional termite control is often more effective at managing significant infestations due to its comprehensive approach and specialized methods. Experts use advanced techniques and equipment to thoroughly assess and treat both visible and hidden termite colonies, ensuring deep penetration into the structure. This targeted treatment helps eliminate termites more effectively and prevents future infestations.
Potential Cons of Professional Termite Control
Although professional services come with a higher upfront cost, they can ultimately save money by preventing extensive structural damage that untreated termite problems could cause. For a tailored solution to your termite concerns, contact an Orkin Pro today to schedule a free inspection and develop a customized termite control program for your home.
Additional Termite Control Resources
How do you know if you have termites?
Learn the signs to look for to determine if you might have a termite infestation.
Why should you be worried about termite damage?
Termites cost Americans more than $5 billion in damage each year and most insurance plans don’t cover the damage.
Schedule a FREE termite inspection
We’ll determine whether you actually have termites, then discuss a treatment plan including financing that works for you.
How Orkin can help with termite control
Learn what you can expect from your Orkin Pro during termite control services.