Nobody wants to find out that they have termites living in the walls of their home. These small pests eat the wood from the inside out and destroy the structural integrity of your house. Today, our Sacramento pest control experts offer some DIY termite solutions to help you if you suspect that you have a termite problem.
Remember that while these solutions may be effective for smaller, contained infestations, if you suspect that you have termites destroying your home, your best option is to call the professionals at Earthwise Pest Management. We can exterminate termite infestations and help you prevent future ones. Contact us today for an estimate.
The Signs of a Termite Infestation
Before starting a DIY termite treatment, it’s important to be sure that you’re dealing with a termite problem. Identifying a termite infestation or termite colony early can save you from extensive damage and costly repairs down the line. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
- Visible Termite Swarmers: Often mistaken for flying ants, these are termites looking to start a new colony.
- Hollow-sounding Wood: Termites consume wood from the inside out, leaving a thin veneer of timber or paint. If wood sounds hollow when tapped, it might be termite-infested.
- Mud Tubes: Subterranean termites build mud tubes to protect themselves from predators and conserve moisture. These pencil-sized tubes are usually found near the foundation.
- Frass: Drywood termites produce wood-colored droppings called frass, which you might find near infested wood.
- Warped Doors and Windows: As termites devour wood, they can cause structures to warp, making doors and windows difficult to open.
Easy DIY Termite Control Solutions
Facing termite pest infestations can be stress-inducing for any homeowner, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can take proactive steps to eliminate termites from your property. Below is a collection of DIY termite control tips, utilizing effective termite control products and strategies designed to target and eradicate these destructive pests. Whether you’re dealing with a current infestation or looking to prevent future issues, these insights will arm you with the information you need to protect your home from the damage termites can cause.
Sodium Borate
Sodium borate, found in borax powder, can be used to kill termites. You can sprinkle the substance around the affected area or mix it with water and spray it. As an added bonus, borax also works on ants.
Nematodes
Nematodes are parasitic worms that eat termites. You can order these online and release them into the area where you have noticed or suspect that you have termites. The nematodes will continue to breed and kill off the colony of termites.
Vinegar
Vinegar can be mixed with lemon juice and used to treat the infected area. Simply pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spray the area where you have seen termites. The vinegar will kill the termites on contact, but you will have to spray the area frequently to continue getting rid of the infestation. If you leave even one termite behind, it could result in an entirely new nest.
Orange Oil
Orange oil can also be used in a spray bottle to treat termite infestations. The main ingredient, d-limonene, dissolves the exoskeleton of the termites, thus killing them. You will need to treat the area frequently to effectively rid your home of termites. You can also use orange oil in the same manner to prevent termite infestations.
Wet Cardboard
Cardboard contains cellulose, the same substance that attracts termites to wood. If you put out a piece of wet cardboard, you’re providing termites not only with a food source but also water, so they will make their way out of your walls and onto the piece of cardboard. Once you notice that your cardboard has attracted a bunch of termites, you can take it and burn it, killing the termites. This is also another solution that will have to be repeated several times.
What to Do When DIY Termite Control Fails?
DIY termite control can sometimes seem like a cost-effective solution, but it often falls short, especially against extensive or hidden infestations. If you’ve tried DIY termite treatments without success, it’s time to:
- Stop the DIY Approach: Continuing can exacerbate the problem. Pause any treatments immediately.
- Identify the Extent of the Damage: While this can be difficult without professional tools, assess how widespread the termite damage might be.
- Contact a Professional: Professional pest control companies have the expertise and equipment to manage termite infestations effectively.
The Benefits of Using a Professional Pest Control Company
Opting for a professional pest control company like Earthwise Pest Management not only ensures the complete eradication of termites but also aligns with eco-friendly practices. Here are the benefits:
- Expert Identification: Professionals can distinguish between subterranean termites, drywood termites, and other pests, ensuring the right treatment plan.
- Advanced Treatment Options: From termite bait systems to less invasive treatments, professionals have access to effective, earth-friendly solutions.
- Preventive Measures: Beyond addressing the existing termite infestation, professionals can implement strategies to prevent future issues.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your home is protected by an annual termite inspection and ongoing support can alleviate the stress of potential termite damage.
- Save Money Long-Term: Preventing termite damage early will save you on the cost of repairs and preserve your home’s value.
DIY termite control might seem appealing, but the risks and potential costs of incomplete eradication are high. At Earthwise Pest Management, we’re committed to providing thorough termite inspection services and treatments that are not only effective but also kind to our planet. Trust us to keep your home safe and termite-free the eco-conscious way.
Hire the Pest Control Experts in Sacramento, CA, and Nearby Areas
If you suspect you have a termite infestation, the best way to ensure it is completely eradicated is by hiring the Sacramento pest control experts from Earthwise Pest Management. While these DIY treatments may be effective on smaller infestations, and some are great ways to prevent termites, if you leave behind any of these pests, the infestation will linger, and they will continue to reproduce in your walls. Some species have colonies that house as many as a million termites. If you have tried these DIY solutions and still suspect that there may be termites living in your home, contact Earthwise Pest Management today.