How to Get Rid of Termites and Prevent Infestations
Posted on: 13 October 2023
Termites can create significant damage to your home and property, making it essential to know how to get rid of them. With proper prevention methods and identification, you can avoid the destruction of your wooden structures. This post will provide you with a guide on how to get rid of termites and when you should call for professional help, as well as prevention methods that you can implement.
Identifying the Type of Termites
The first step in getting rid of termites is to be able to identify them correctly. Three types of termites commonly infest homes: subterranean termites, drywood termites, and dampwood termites. Subterranean termites are the most damaging species and can cause extensive damage to your property. They prefer humid environments and infest homes through mud tubes they build on basement walls and foundations. Drywood termites infest dry wooden furniture and wooden structures and create small piles of fecal pellets near the infested zone. Dampwood termites infest moist and decaying wood and require higher moisture levels than the other two termite species.
Natural Remedies for Getting Rid of Termites
If you identify a termite infestation, you can start by using natural remedies to get rid of them. One natural remedy is to expose the infested wood to sunlight, which dries out the termites. You can also use orange oil, which contains d-limonene, a compound toxic to termites. When applied to the infested wood, it causes the termites to suffocate and die. Another natural remedy is the use of beneficial nematodes, which are natural predators of termites. You can release them in your garden or the ground near your home to feed on the termites.
When to Call for Professional Pest Control Services
If the infestation has spread beyond the natural remedies' application, it's time to call for professional pest control services. Professional pest control experts use specialised equipment, techniques and products to get rid of termites. They also offer regular inspections to monitor your property's termite situation and take preventive measures to prevent future infestations. Professional pest control services may cost more than natural remedies, but they offer long-term solutions to termite infestations.
Prevention Methods to Avoid Termite Infestations
Prevention is always the best approach to avoid termite infestations. Here are some preventive measures to keep termites at bay:
- Keep your home's foundation dry and clean
- Repair leaks in pipes, roof and gutters
- Store firewood away from your property and above ground
- Use treated lumber for wooden structures
- Install mesh screens on doors, windows and attic vents
- Schedule regular inspections and use preventive products before termite infestations occur.
Termites can cause extensive damage to both your home and property. Therefore, it's crucial to identify the infestation's type and start with natural remedies. If the infestation continues, it's time to seek professional pest control services. Lastly, implementing preventive measures is the best way to avoid termite infestations in the first place. By following these steps, you can keep your property termite-free and ensure it remains structurally sound for years to come.
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