termite Termites are one of the United States’ biggest threats to our homes from a pest perspective. The damage that termites cause to our homes can affect its structural integrity; however, as the damage is usually hidden inside the wooden components located in the framing of the home many people do not realize there’s an issue until it’s a little too late. Many termite extermination companies are asked to help only when extensive damage has already occurred.

The good news is that modern methods to eliminate termites can work well, but there are still a few concerns about their effectiveness.

Modern methods that are used to eliminate termites are much more effective than they used to be. Homeowners these days have the chance to choose between several different methods in their efforts to eliminate termites. But how effective are these methods? Let’s take a look at this now:

Termite Control Atlanta and Modern Termiticde Treatments

Liquid termiticides are routinely used in modern termite treatments. A lot of work has been undertaken by the manufacturers of these products to improve their safety while also reducing the termiticide’s impact on the environment.

Liquid soil treatment

The most common type of termite treatment is a liquid soil treatment. These treatments use termiticides that kill the termites after they come into contact with the treatment zone. Some are classified as repellants while others are classified as non-repellants, and which type of termiticide is used has significant consequences on the efficacy and long-term protection the treatment offers.

Termite baits

The best termite baits house a slow-acting insecticide that has a smaller impact on the health of humans and on the environment. Baits such as these are usually placed in the ground along the exterior perimeter of the structure to be protected. Termites eat the bait and unknowingly spread the active ingredient through their colony or “nest.” This method can lead to the elimination of the entire colony of termites. Note however that not all termite baits are created equal. As with liquid termiticides, the particular type of termite baiting system selected will greatly impact the overall success and effectiveness of the termite control and protection efforts.

Non-chemical Treatments

Non-chemical treatments are often used in addition to pesticides, as part of an integrated pest management program.

It’s crucial that those who have termites in their home understand that non-chemical treatments will not eliminate the termites in the same way that traditional soil treatments or termite bait systems do.

Nematodes

Nematodes are tiny roundworms that deliberately find and enter termites. The Nematode lives inside the termite and feeds until the termite dies. Nematodes are thought to have no negative impact on humans, plants, or pets. This method will not kill the termites quickly but it may help in control efforts.

Fungi

Metarhizium anisopliae is an effective fungus that is lethal to termites. The fungus works as a slow-acting poison and it will spread from the infected termite to other members of the colony.

Sand

Sand can serve as a non-chemical barrier if implemented as part of a pre-construction effort to prevent termites from gaining access to a structure as termites have a difficult time tunneling through the sand itself. Sand should be used as a basic method of prevention as it will not kill termites already present inside a structure.

Modern termite elimination methods can be very effective, working to destroy a colony of termites over time. While the best elimination methods do require the use of insecticides, non-chemical methods can help to keep termites at bay and work in conjunction with traditional termiticides.

We’re the best termite control Alpharetta has! Request a free estimate from us today and let us eliminate the colony of termites threatening to destroy your home.