The Ultimate Guide to Termite Treatment: Everything You Need to Know

Termites are silent destroyers. These small, social insects can cause significant damage to homes and structures by feeding on wood, flooring, and even wallpaper—often undetected until it’s too late. Each year, termites cause billions of dollars in structural damage, and homeowners spend over two billion dollars to treat them. Whether you're dealing with an infestation or aiming for prevention, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about termite treatment.

Understanding Termites

Before diving into treatment options, it's important to understand your enemy. There are over 2,000 species of termites globally, but only a few are responsible for property damage. The most common types include:

• Subterranean termites: Live underground and build mud tubes to access food. They are the most destructive in Australia.

• Drywood termites: Nest within the wood they consume and don’t require contact with soil.

• Dampwood termites: Thrive in moist wood and are less common in homes.

Recognizing the species you're dealing with is crucial to selecting the right treatment method.

Signs of a Termite Infestation

Termites can be hard to detect, but here are key signs to watch for:

• Mud tubes on exterior walls, foundations, or crawlspaces

• Discarded wings near windows or doors (a sign of swarming)

• Hollow-sounding wood when tapped

• Frass (termite droppings), which look like tiny wood pellets

• Cracked or bubbling paint, which could be a sign of moisture and tunneling below

If you notice any of these signs, it's important to act quickly.

Termite Inspection

The first step in treatment is a professional inspection. A licensed pest control expert will identify:

• The type of termites

• The extent of the infestation

• Entry points and nesting areas

• Damage already caused

Many pest control companies offer free or low-cost inspections, and they’ll provide a treatment plan customized to your situation.

Termite Treatment Options

There are two broad categories of treatment: chemical and non-chemical methods.

1. Liquid Termiticides

These are applied to the soil around and beneath your home to create a barrier that kills or repels termites. Two common types:

• Repellent termiticides (like permethrin): Drive termites away but don't kill them.

• Non-repellent termiticides (like fipronil): Termites pass through it and carry the poison back to the colony.

Non-repellent formulas are often more effective because they reduce the chance of termites avoiding the treatment area.

2. Termite Baits

Baiting systems are placed in the ground around your home. They contain wood or cellulose materials mixed with a slow-acting poison. Termites feed on the bait and carry it back to their colony, eventually killing the queen and other termites.

Popular bait systems include Sentricon and Advance Termite Bait System (ATBS). Baiting is less invasive than soil treatments and is effective for ongoing control.

3. Wood Treatments

Wood treatments involve applying surface sprays, injected sprays, or foams directly into wood. These can prevent termites from consuming the wood or kill those already inside.

This method is often used in tandem with soil or baiting treatments.

4. Fumigation (Tent Treatment)

Fumigation is typically reserved for drywood termite infestations. Your entire home is enclosed in a tent, and a gas (usually sulfuryl fluoride) is introduced to kill termites throughout the structure.

This is an intensive and costly option, but it can be the most effective way to treat widespread infestations.

Natural and Non-Chemical Methods

If you’re looking for greener or DIY-friendly approaches, consider:

• Nematodes: These microscopic worms eat termites and are available at garden centers.

• Orange oil: Contains d-limonene, which can kill termites on contact.

• Boric acid: A powder used to kill termites by damaging their digestive systems.

While these methods can help with minor infestations or prevention, they are rarely effective on their own for large-scale problems.

Prevention Tips

The best termite treatment is prevention. Here’s how to reduce the risk of infestation:

1. Eliminate moisture problems: Fix leaky pipes, maintain proper drainage, and keep gutters clean.

2. Reduce wood-to-soil contact: Don’t allow wood siding, lattice, or trellises to touch the ground.

3. Store firewood away from your home: At least 20 feet from your house and 5 inches off the ground.

4. Seal cracks and crevices: Especially where utilities enter your home.

5. Schedule regular inspections: Once a year is ideal, especially in termite-prone areas.

Cost of Termite Treatment

The cost can vary widely based on the severity of the infestation, the type of termites, and the treatment used:

• Liquid treatments: $3–$12 per linear foot (can total $500–$2,500+)

• Bait systems: $1,000–$3,000 for initial installation and monitoring

• Fumigation: $1,200–$4,000 depending on home size

• Spot treatments: $200–$900

Investing in treatment early can save you from more expensive structural repairs later.

Choosing a Pest Control Professional

When selecting a termite control company:

• Look for licensed and insured professionals

• Check online reviews and Better Business Bureau ratings

• Ask for detailed inspection reports and written treatment plans

• Inquire about warranties or guarantees

It’s okay to get multiple quotes to compare options and pricing.

Conclusion

Termite treatment isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. From inspection to prevention, understanding your specific situation is key to effective control. Acting quickly when signs appear, and investing in professional treatment when needed, can protect your home for years to come. Regular inspections and preventive measures are your best defense against these persistent pests.

Whether you choose a DIY solution or work with a pest control expert, staying informed and proactive is the ultimate termite treatment strategy.