How to Get Rid of Termites from Your Home

If you notice some signs of termites in your home or near your home, it is important that you know how to get rid of them and prevent infestations.

This article serves as a guide to walk you through different methods of termite control, the types of termites you may encounter, and professional solutions available to protect your home from termite attacks.

Understanding termite infestation: how it begins and spreads

A termite infestation is disastrous. Although they don’t bite or feed on humans, their main targets are the wooden structures in your home. 

Termites typically infest your home by building mud tubes, allowing them to travel safely from the soil to their food source—wood. Subterranean termites are the most common culprits, creating extensive networks underground and within your home’s foundations. They primarily infest wooden structures, feeding on cellulose found in wood, books, and other organic materials.

Signs of termites around your home

If you notice these signs, then you need to act quickly.

Some of the common signs include finding mud tubes around your house, discarded wings near windows and doors, or hearing a hollow sound when you tap the wood in your home. Drywood termites shed their wings as they establish new colonies, and subterranean termites build mud tubes that allow them to stay moist while travelling.

If you notice these signs, you may already have a termite infestation that requires immediate attention.

Types of termites and their unique threats

To effectively treat termites, it’s important to know what type of termites you’re dealing with. There are different kinds of termites, but the three main types affecting Australian homes are subterranean termites, drywood termites, and dampwood termites. Each type presents unique challenges and requires specific treatment methods.

Subterranean termites

Subterranean termites are the most destructive type of termite in Australia. The majority of termite damage we see every year is caused by these species. These termites build large colonies underground and create mud tubes to travel back and forth from their food source. They can severely damage the foundations of your house if left untreated. Subterranean termites eat wood from the inside out, often leaving behind just a thin veneer of wood and a hollow interior.

Drywood termites

Drywood termites do not require contact with soil and typically infest dry wood in attics, furniture, and walls. They create termite colonies within the wood itself, and their infestations can go unnoticed for years. Drywood termites eat wood directly, leaving behind small pellets that resemble sawdust, a telltale sign of their presence.

Dampwood termites

Dampwood termites are less common but still a threat, particularly in areas with high moisture levels. They prefer decaying wood, often found in tree stumps or damp areas around your home. While they are less likely to infest homes than subterranean or drywood termites, dampwood termites can cause significant damage if ignored.

DIY methods for getting rid of termites

While professional treatments are highly recommended, there are some DIY methods you can use to reduce the risk of termites around your home. These methods are ideal for minor infestations or as preventive measures.

Removing food sources

Termites feed on cellulose, a component found in wood, cardboard, and paper. Removing potential food sources around your home can deter termites from infesting your property. Ensure that firewood is stored away from your home, and remove any tree stumps or decaying wood near your house.

Using termite baits

You can purchase termite baiting systems designed for DIY use or use our result-driven baiting system. Place the bait near areas where termites are active, such as near mud tubes or wood structures. The bait should contain a slow-acting pesticide that termites consume and bring back to their colony, gradually eliminating the infestation.

Applying DIY termite treatments

There are various DIY termite treatment products available, such as termiticides and boric acid. These treatments can be applied directly to termite-infested areas or used as a preventive barrier around your home. However, DIY termite treatments may not be as effective as professional services, especially for severe infestations.

Types of termite treatments

Choosing the right type of termite treatment depends on the severity of the infestation and the type of termites present. The most common termite treatments include chemical barriers, baiting systems, and direct applications of pesticides. Here’s a closer look at each option:

Liquid termite barriers

Liquid termite barriers are applied around the foundation of your home to create a chemical barrier that kills the termites on contact. These barriers are long-lasting and can provide protection for several months with minimal maintenance. They are effective against subterranean termites and can prevent future infestations.

Termite baiting systems

As mentioned earlier, our termite baiting systems are designed to attract and kill termites with a slow-acting poison that spreads through the colony. This baiting system is non-toxic and environmentally friendly. Bait stations are strategically placed around your property, and the termite activity is monitored over time to ensure the colony is effectively eradicated.

DIY termite treatments

For minor infestations or as a preventive measure, DIY termite treatments like boric acid and over-the-counter termiticides can be used. These treatments are most effective when applied early in an infestation, but they may not be sufficient for large colonies or hidden infestations.

Professional termite treatment 

For many homeowners, getting rid of termites requires more than just DIY methods. Professional termite control services offer comprehensive solutions that ensure termite problems are handled effectively and long-term prevention is achieved. In fact, if you notice termites on your property, it is best to call us immediately.

Hiring professional termite control services is often the best way to ensure a thorough inspection and treatment. Pest2Kill professionals can identify the signs of a termite infestation early, assess the extent of the damage, and apply the most appropriate treatments. Our pest control experts use specialised tools to detect hidden infestations and can offer ongoing monitoring services to keep your home termite-free.

The importance of termite control

Termites can cause significant damage to your home, but with the right approach, you can effectively eliminate them and protect your property. Understanding the signs of an infestation, knowing the different types of termites, and choosing the right treatment method are key to protecting your property. While DIY methods can be useful for prevention and minor infestations, professional termite control services offer the most reliable and long-term protection.

 You could either opt for chemical barriers, termite baiting systems, or professional pest control companies; either way, early action is necessary.

At Pest2Kill, we will provide thorough termite inspections, property maintenance, and a combination of preventive and treatment measures that can help you get rid of termites and keep them away from your home for good. Contact us today. 

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