Using a termite pest control product is not difficult, but you need to follow some precautions. Most chemicals are easy to use and require little to no equipment. It is better to hire a professional from Pest Control Knoxville TN for more complex infestations. But you can try the most common termite pest control methods. Listed below are some of the most common and effective options for addressing termite problems.
One of the most popular termite pest control products comes in concentrated form and foams easily. It kills termites by inhibiting their feeding and socializing habits. Large applications of the product can repel termites. Termite control products should be applied at least three months before the first onset of damage. Once they begin destroying your home, you can then use other methods to keep them away.
Termites feed on wood and plant-based materials. Termite infestations can degrade the value of your home or business by causing extensive damage. Termites are the largest single pest of wooden buildings in the country, and they cause an estimated $5 billion worth of damage each year. They damage building structures by eating the wood that supports their framing systems. Once these wood elements are compromised, they affect other wood parts.
Fortunately, there are many effective methods of controlling termites. One of the most effective and environmentally-friendly methods is the use of baits. These baits are made to be more desirable to termites than wood, so they will share them with other termites in the colony. Termites will be less likely to attack a house when baits are used. Moreover, the baits are non-repellent, so they won’t affect other living organisms in the area.
There are many signs of termite infestations, including hollow-sounding wood, discarded wings, peeling paint, and a clicking sound coming from the basement. You should also check for mud tubes and a block of hollow-sounding wood. The pest control expert will apply fipronil or hexaflumuron, a chemical that kills termites on contact. When used properly, the treatment will last the life of the wood.
Traditional methods of termite control involve using a liquid insecticide to treat the area underneath the building. Liquids are either repellent or lethal, and may also be effective in preventing termites from returning to the soil. However, these methods are often invasive, and drilling or injecting them through concrete is needed. Another method is baiting, which essentially entices the termites to eat small pieces of food. When they encounter the liquid, they carry the pesticide back to the colony.
Physical barriers to termite pest control are gaining popularity in different parts of the country. These products contain no chemicals and work as an effective pest control method. Copper termite shields are one option, though they are expensive. Stainless steel mesh, meanwhile, can be installed in foundation walls or wrapped around pipe frontage. Polymer plastic sheeting called impasse is another option. These plastic sheets contain an insecticide in between two layers and are laid along the foundation of your home.
When termites are infesting a structure, you should check for winged termites. These winged insects are attracted to light and are commonly found near windows. Although they are not harmful to humans, they can cause thousands of dollars in damages. They are often mistaken for ants, as they swarm during the same season. The winged reproductives are usually darker than the rest of the colony. A swarm of termites can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
While there is no guarantee of success with termite pest control, you can choose a scientifically sound method to eliminate these pesky insects. The choice of treatment method will depend on the infestation level, the type of construction, soil conditions, and state regulations. You can find affordable treatment at your local pest control company. The best way to eradicate termites is to get professional assistance from a trained pest control technician.
If the termites are already present, a professional will perform a thorough inspection of your home and perform necessary repairs. You can also install screened vents in your home and splash blocks around the foundation. The installation of a barrier will prevent future infestations. A professional will also inspect the entire structure for cracks. A thorough inspection can detect and eliminate termite activity in your home and make the necessary adjustments to prevent future infestations.
