For effective termite control, first identify the termites who are invading your house. By far the most common termite infestations are perpetuated by subterranean termites, however drywood termites and dampwood termites can also cause infestations. Reference a Termite Identification website or wikipedia's Termite Information page. Once you know what kind of termite you are dealing with, you can begin the second stage of an effective termite treatment program, elimination.

There are three routes you can take in eliminating a termite infestation. Listed in order from least expensive to most expensive, they are barrier treatments, bait stations, or hire a professional. Barrier treatments are relatively cheap. Applying a barrier product such as Termidor can be very effective. Termidor is extremely useful as a barrier treatment, because it does not kill the termites immediately. Instead they enter the area treated with Termidor, receive a lethal dose of the active ingredient fipronil, and then they transfer the poison to other termites they come in contact with till they ultimately die. You can think of Barrier treatments like a moat, protecting your house from termite invaders, and of the available barrier treatments, Termidor currently offers the best protection.

Bait stations are another option. There are various bait stations available, however they all are based off of the same idea. You set out the bait stations in a perimeter around your house, with a wood based bait which any termites in the area will be attracted to. If you find termite activity, that means you have a termite infestation, you then replace the wood in the stations with the poison laced bait. The termites will feed on the bait, return to the colony with the food, and you can eliminate the entire colony.

The final option is the most expensive, however sometimes necessary. States vary in regulations concerning the usage of termiticides, and if your state requires a license, you may have no option but hiring a professional. You can check your state's rule with their structural pest control board. You might also go with the professional if you feel your infestation is beyond your capacity to control. When picking a professional, make sure you choose a reputable company who will eliminate your problem completely. Choosing a company solely based on price in this circumstance could be being "penny wise but pound foolish", as the saying goes!

The final stage to effective termite control is prevention. Eliminate any wood to ground contact. Portions of your house where wood comes into direct contact with moist dirt is a prime area for termite entry. Look at areas such as porches, or wooden posts placed in the ground. These types of areas attract and feed termites. Eliminate wood debris such as fallen tree branches, fire wood stacks, or any dead wood in contact with ground as these will attract termites and put your home at risk. Finally you can treat wood with a product such as Boracare. Boracare provides long lasting protection, and can be sprayed on both wood and concrete. to prevent termite activity.

While termites may be necessary in nature, they aren't welcome in your home! Don't risk an infestation which ruins your home's value. Take the steps outlined here, to make sure your home doesn't suffer costly termite damage!

Need more information? Check out our Termite Information Page!