How to Destroy Termites

Termites seriously damage your property, leading to hazards.

Termites are insects that live in large colonies, either above or underground structures or trees. A termite infestation of your property causes significant and expensive structural damage. It is possible to attempt to destroy the termite infestation yourself. This involves the use of chemicals called "termiticides" that act as a barrier around your property and the placing of termite bait.

Things You'll Need

• Termiticide
• Spraying equipment
• Termite bait

Instructions

1. Purchase a termiticide chemical. Some termiticides include "Termite Blocker," which protects against other insects like carpenter ants as well as termites and "Termidor," a termiticide capable of several application methods. Depending on the size of your property, you may require a great deal of the chemical. Chemicals like "Termite Blocker" can be applied with a simple spray bottle or even a brush. Chemicals can usually be purchased from your local hardware store and online retailers.

2. Locate obvious problem areas both inside and outside and apply the spray. Apply to other areas of your property as well such as structures in your yard, such as mail boxes, fence posts and sheds.

3. Spray along the entire foundation of your property. You must apply the spray thoroughly, according to the directions on the chemical, in order to get the best results.

4. Consider using a termite baiting system after you have finished the spraying process. Even a professional terminate spraying job may not eliminate termites, so they may return. A termite baiting system involves placing pieces of material that termites eat, such as wood or other cellulose, that have been poisoned into the ground around your property. Termites eat or take pieces of the poisoned material from the bait back to their nest where other termites also feed on it, resulting in a reduced or destroyed nest.

5. Place untreated bits of wood underground near suspected termite sites at intervals of 10 to 20 feet if you believe you have subterranean termites. If termites appear in the wood, place the poisoned bait at the sites. There are a number of commercial baiting products available. Some of these include "Spectracide Terminate" and "Terminid" (See Reference 6). This and other termite baits are available at your local hardware store as well as through online retailers.

6. Inspect the baiting stations regularly and replace the bait whenever it is depleted.

7. Consider hiring a professional pest control company if your own efforts fail or are unsatisfactory.

Tips & Warnings

• Termiticide chemicals are thoroughly tested for any adverse effects on humans and animals. With proper application, they pose no risk to yourself, your family or your pet.

• If you are cautious, you may want to keep them away from sprayed areas anyway.

• While termiticide is usually odorless, you may also want to consider wearing a mask. Refer to the safety information on the label of the chemical.

References

• University of Kentucky College of Agriculture: Termite Baits: A Guide for Homeowners
• University of Kentucky College of Agriculture: Termite Control: Answers for Homeowners
• Termite Control: Can I Do My Own Termite Work
• Termite Blocker: The Advantages
• Termidor: Termidor for Termite Defense
• Ohio State University FactSheet: Termite Baits; Susan C. Jones, Ph.D.; 1991