Termites are a serious headache for homeowners. The damage they cause can cost thousands of dollars in repairs, and that number only goes up the longer they’re able to chew away at your property. Termite treatments are essential to not only eliminate infestations, but prevent them from coming back. But, how do you know if you need them, and how do they work?

Do You Need Termite Treatment?

If you even suspect there are termites in your home or business, it’s time to contact a professional pest control company. Infestations can go months or years without being noticed, so keep an eye out for these signs of termites:

Mud tubes, usually along foundations or crawl spaces
Winged termites, also known as swarmers
Discarded wings
Frass, which is like a very fine sawdust
Bubbling paint or discolored drywall
Wood that sounds hollow
Sagging floorboards

Best Time for Termite Treatments

In Jacksonville FL, the timing of termite treatment can significantly impact its effectiveness. If you want to get the most out of your treatment plan, try scheduling an appointment during:

Spring and Fall: Spring and fall are prime times for termite activity, as these seasons provide the optimal conditions for termites to swarm and establish new colonies. Treating your home during these seasons can help prevent infestations before they become established.
Pre-Construction: If you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one, pre-construction termite treatments are highly recommended. Applying termiticides and other preventive measures during construction can protect your home from the start.
Annual Prevention: For ongoing protection against termites, consider scheduling regular annual treatments. Many pest control companies offer year-round services that include routine inspections and treatments to ensure your home remains termite-free.
Immediate Treatment Upon Detection: If you notice signs of termites or suspect an infestation at any time of year, it’s important to schedule termite treatment immediately. Prompt action can prevent further damage and minimize the cost of repairs.

Types of Termite Treatments

There are several types of termite treatments available. Most professional exterminators use a combination of these tactics to provide comprehensive protection, but understanding what each option is can be helpful. Here are the most common termite treatments and how they work.

Liquid Termiticides

Liquid termiticides are applied to the soil around and/or under your home’s foundation. This creates a barrier that termites cannot cross, effectively protecting your home from infestations. The treatment may involve trenching around the foundation and drilling through slabs to apply the termiticide.

Bait Stations

Bait stations are placed in the ground around the perimeter of your home. These stations contain cellulose material that termites prefer over wood, which they then carry back to their colonies. This method effectively eliminates entire termite colonies over time. Regular monitoring and replenishment of the bait are necessary to maintain protection.

Borate Treatments

Borate treatments are applied to wood during construction or renovation to prevent termite infestations. Borates penetrate the wood, making it toxic to termites and other wood-destroying pests. While they can be a great way to prevent infestations, they may not eliminate insects that have already made their way inside.

Are Termite Treatments Safe?

When applied by a professional, termite treatments are safe for you, your pets, and the environment. Prior to a treatment, remember to inform your technician about any small children or pets on your property.

At Bug Out, we prioritize safe treatments by applying EPA-approved products with the utmost care and attention to detail. Our technicians are highly trained in the proper application of these treatments to minimize any risks to your household.

How Long Do Termite Treatments Last?

Termite treatments vary in effectiveness and longevity based on several factors, including the type of treatment and the severity of the infestation. That said, here’s how long you can generally expect each type of termite treatment to last:

Liquid termiticides: Often up to a decade with minimal maintenance.
Bait stations: Several weeks, but they require regular inspection and upkeep.

Year-Round Termite Prevention

Treating termites can be a challenging and stressful process, but thorough prevention can help you avoid these pests in the first place. At Bug Out, we offer a variety of termite prevention plans to offer long-term protection. We create custom plans that are tailored to your specific needs and use state-of-the-art techniques for reliable results. Contact us today to schedule an inspection.

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