If you live in Florida, you may have encountered one of the most destructive pests in the state: subterranean termites. These insects live in colonies underground and feed on wood and cellulose materials. They can cause extensive damage to your home’s structure, furniture, and belongings if left untreated. Fortunately, there are some effective solutions to protect your home from subterranean termites. Read more on some of the best methods of subterranean termite treatment and prevention.
Subterranean Termite Prevention Tips
The best way to deal with subterranean termites is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. Some of the preventive measures you can take yourself are:
- Eliminate moisture sources: Termites need moisture to survive, so you should fix any leaks, drainage problems, or condensation issues in your home. You should also keep your gutters and downspouts clean and direct water away from your foundation.
- Remove wood-to-soil contact: Termites can easily access your home through wood that touches the ground, such as siding, porch steps, or fence posts. You should keep a minimum of 6 inches of clearance between the wood and the soil and use metal or concrete barriers if necessary.
- Store firewood away from your home: Firewood is a tempting food source for termites, so you should store it at least 20 feet away from your home and off the ground. You should also avoid stacking it against your walls or under your eaves.
- Inspect your home regularly: You should check your home for signs of termite activity at least once a year, especially in areas that are prone to moisture or wood damage. You can also hire a pest control company to perform a thorough inspection and provide a report.
Subterranean Termite Treatments
If you already have a termite infestation in your home or are in search of long-term termite solutions, you will need to treat it with professional methods. There are two main types of subterranean termite treatment: liquid and bait.
- Liquid treatments: This treatment involves applying a liquid termiticide to the soil around and under your home. The product creates a barrier that eliminates termites that try to cross it. Liquid treatments can be effective for controlling existing infestations and preventing future ones.
- Bait treatments: These involve placing bait stations around your home that contain a slow-acting toxicant that termites feed on and share with their colony. The bait gradually eliminates the entire colony over time. Bait treatments can be less invasive and more environmentally friendly than liquid treatments.
The type of treatment that suits your situation may depend on several factors, such as the location and severity of the infestation, the type and condition of your home, and your personal preferences. Subterranean termites are a serious threat to your home’s structure and value, but you can protect it with proper prevention and treatment methods. If you need help with termite control, contact your local pest control company for professional assistance with termite invasions or preventions.
