The Truth About Termite Prevention and Treatment

For .Termite control is the management of a termite infestation by measures that kill or manage the colony before it does significant structural damage to wood. It includes preventive measures such as inspections, chemical treatments, and exclusion techniques–as well as more destructive approaches like fumigation or tenting. Contact Termite Specialist now.

Termite Prevention is the Best Defense

Most termite control experts, liek www.northfultonexterminating.com/termite-control-duluth/, recommend preventive measures over exterminating pests that are already in the home. Homeowners can help prevent termite infestation by repairing any damage to the home’s foundation, making sure vents, pipes and cables are not located near the house or other structures, keeping gutters clear and trimming back branches touching or close to the house.

While termites cannot harm a house built on a concrete slab or one made of brick, block or stone, wood is very much at risk.

Learning to Spot a Termite Infestation

If you suspect termites, you need to be able to tell the difference between the termite’s larvae and the damaging activity of workers. Termites have a hard shield on their backside, which is unique for each life stage.

Mature termites have no visible limbs or wings. Their bodies are completely white and are often mistaken for white ants.

Termite workers carry their eggs in a fecal pouch attached to their bodies and can be recognized by watching where they flick and drop them while moving.

Building Code Requirements for Termite Protection and Repair

In the United States, building code requirements dictate minimum standards for termite prevention and repair. The national code requires that home foundations be inspected annually by a licensed pest control professional.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) has developed a series of codes that provide more detailed instructions on proper repair techniques to check for and prevent termite problems.

Termites are usually detected through routine inspections of structures, or “punch lists,” performed by pest control professionals.

Effective Chemical Treatments for Termites

Some chemical treatments for termites include:

Non-repellent termiticides, non-repellent termiticides used to reduce the termite’s contact with treated wood. They are applied to the ground and penetrate the wood through direct contact rather than through vaporization.

Termidor SC, a termite treatment that is said to have no adverse effect on pets or humans and be long lasting. It is labeled for use in homes and specific commercial applications.

Keeping Termites Out of Your Home

Traditional methods for termite control include:

Building a good base around your home and all attached structures, which is critical.

Improving the soil around your home with mulch, sod, rocks or wood shavings to help retain moisture and reduce infestation.

Installing an air conditioner or dehumidifier if you live in a humid climate. This can put you in a lower risk category for termites.

Termite infestations are a concern and homeowners should take the necessary precautionary measures to detect any potential termite infestation. When termites are detected, it is critical to have them treated immediately. Homeowners can avoid a costly termite infestation by doing some regular inspections on the structure, as well as the outside.

If you suspect termites in the home, call a pest control professional immediately. Professional termite inspections are essential for homeowners to determine the extent of an infestation.