Conventional and Baiting Treatments

Termites exhibit continuous and random foraging behavior, so even when they have found a good source for food, they constantly look for more. We strategically place the Terminix baiting stations in areas where the termites are likely to forage.

There is no single method of controlling termites that is better than the others, but having options does provide a choice of methods to suit particular situations. Terminix recommends a termite inspection in order to determine the best method and treatment plan.

Traditional barrier treatments use applications of termiticide to the soil at potential termite entry points into the structure. The termite colony must then use other available food sources such as tree roots, fallen limbs, fences, etc. instead of the structure. Soil treatments are intended to control termites for extended periods of time, although, they may be breached due to physical disturbance of the treatment zone (landscaping activities, construction, erosion), tree roots growing through the treatment zone, and natural degradation of the termiticide, among others. For these reasons, most termite control treatments are available with renewable warranties.

Baiting all stations immediately would be impractical and expensive. Bait is placed only in the stations that show signs of termite activity and kept there only as long as termites continue to feed on it.

The Terminix Termite Baiting Program™ has been proven effective against all economically important subterranean (not drywood) termite species in the mainland U.S. and Hawaii – including Formosan termites – regardless of soil type, climate or geographic conditions.

No. Once the colony is gone, others may move in to the area. To keep your home protected, we will continue to monitor the Terminix baiting stations for signs of a new colony as long as your contract remains in effect.

Yes. Without an effective prevention program, your home is open to termite damage, which could remain unnoticed until it becomes a serious problem. The Terminix Termite Baiting Program™ is designed to eliminate termites and their colonies before they enter your home.

More than likely, a home infested with drywood termites will require tent fumigation. Tent fumigation involves covering the home with tarps and introducing a fumigant gas to penetrate all infested wood. This method assures that all drywood termites in the home are eliminated.

Fumigation, also known as tenting, is one of the treatment options for dealing with active drywood termites. Localized "spot" treatment controls only the drywood termite activity in the specific area and often involves drilling into infested areas. CleanHeat, available in limited markets, controls drywood termite activity in the area treated. Keep in mind that control methods for drywood termites do not control subterranean termites.

There are a number of factors that may differentiate termite and pest control companies from one another. Following are general guidelines for choosing the best company for your needs:

• Look for a reputable company with representatives knowledgeable about pest and/or termite habits, types of home construction, treatment specifications and state regulations.
• Ask friends and associates to recommend companies they have used.
• Look for companies with memberships in industry associations such as the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) that provide ethical guidelines and technical information.
• Find out if continued coverage is offered that includes treatment for reinfestation and repairs for future damage, and ask if it is renewable.
• Be certain the company is licensed by your state's regulatory agency.

Tenting requires an experienced, licensed company. It is the only method to ensure 100% control of drywood termites and some situations involving wood-boring beetles. The procedure itself poses some risk during tenting while the fumigant is being contained. After the tarps are removed, however, the home is aired out and cleared, and no residue is left behind.

First, the system is installed to control or eliminate the colony and provide long-term protection. If the infestation is severe, Terminix will provide a customized solution to the problem, which may include above ground termite bait stations and/or conventional liquid treatment.

The bait contains an insect growth regulator that prevents the successful completion of the termites’ vital molting process. Because they are unable to molt, they cannot advance through their life cycle, and die.

Individual termites can be affected within a few days after consuming the bait, but it may take several months before an entire colony is controlled or eliminated. This varies depending on the time of year, geography, the number of termites and termite species.

Once the system is installed, your Terminix service professional will periodically visit your home to check the elimination progress.

Yes, as long as you maintain your agreement, the Terminix Termite Baiting Program™ is like having a termite alarm system. If you don’t have an effective prevention program, your house is susceptible to termites and the damage they cause.