How to get rid of termites in your home
When you see these tiny critters in your home, you need to know how to get rid of termites fast. And just like learning how to get rid of antsYou will know that if you spot one, you are bound to find an entire colony.
Unlike ants, termites are cellulosic insects, meaning they feed on wood. This is bad news for homeowners, as termite colonies can quickly destroy decks, porches, beams, and wooden furniture. Worse, they can cause structural damage by burrowing into walls, doors, and floorboards. That’s why knowing how to get rid of termites in your home and keep them out is so important.
Typically, termites are found in almost every US state (except Alaska), either in the soil or in whatever type of wood is available to them. The most common species are underground termites, which thrive in moist environments like soil or compost, but feed on wood. While wetwood and drywood termites nest and feed on water-damaged wood. Household issues like leaky pipes, poor drainage, and airflow are all issues that create the moisture needed to attract termites to your property.
Luckily, there are some simple things you can do to deter termites and keep these tiny critters away. So if you want to protect your home from damage, here’s how to get rid of termites once and for all.
If you come across other creepy crawlies, learn Here’s how to get rid of maggots in your trash can, how to get rid of stink bugsand how to get rid of mosquitoes in your home.
1. Tidy up your property to deter termites
Clean up your outside areas or property first to get rid of anything that attracts termites. Since termites feed on wood in humid conditions, make sure the soil around your home is dry. Check regularly for leaking plumbing or clogged drains that lead to soggy soil. Dirty, wet gutters are also ideal homes for termites, so keep your gutters free of dirt or debris.
Also, avoid piling firewood against your house and remove old tree stumps from your yard to prevent termites from visiting. If you must store wood, be sure to cover it completely to keep it dry. It is also recommended that wood decks require at least 6 inches of space between the porch and the floor to prevent water damage. Similarly, keep interiors dry and wipe away standing water on floors how to clean every room correct. Prevention is the key!
2. Try beneficial nematodes
For a more natural method, beneficial nematodes are a great way to get rid of termites. These are microscopic parasites that attack and kill a variety of garden pests, including termites. These can be bought at your local garden center or online like these NaturesGoodGuys Live Beneficial Nematodes ($17). (opens in new tab)Amazon (opens in new tab)).
Remember that nematodes are living things and therefore must be used with a sprayer immediately after opening. If this is not possible, many can be stored in the refrigerator at 37°F – 49°F for up to two weeks, but always follow directions before use. The best time to apply is in the morning or late afternoon and avoid direct sunlight as this reduces effectiveness. In addition, they are safe to use around pets, people, plants and home grown produce.
3. Make a bait station to catch termites
If you suspect termites in your yard, you can try a termite bait station. Essentially, these are small, cylindrical containers that contain a small amount of wood or paper infused with a substance that poisons these critters. Then slide the trap into the ground with the top flush with ground level.
The goal is to attract termites, which will then carry the venom back to their nests, killing most of the colony. Experts recommend spacing bait stations about 10 to 20 feet apart and keeping them 2 to 4 feet from your property. While you could do this yourself, it’s advisable to ask an expert to install them for you.
4. Catch them with cardboard
Alternatively, you could make a cardboard trap. Simply dampen a few strips of cardboard and stack them in the area where you suspect termites. The tiny critters are drawn to the trap in search of food, and once infested, take them to a safe place to incinerate or dispose of. While this may not completely eliminate a colony, this may need to be repeated to make a difference.
5. Expose your wood to sunlight
If you have a piece (or pieces) of wooden furniture that is infested with termites, remove it from the house and expose it to sunlight. Since termites prefer darkness, they will not survive in the heat and sunlight. Leave the affected table or chairs outside on a sunny day for a few days or as long as possible.
6. Try boric acid
Boric acid is another effective way to get rid of termites. This chemical is the main insecticide used in many store-bought termite insecticides to shut down the termites’ nervous system while it becomes dehydrated. You can apply this powder directly to affected areas, use in bait stations, or dilute with water to use as a spray. Remember that boric acid is toxic and harmful to humans and pets, so always use it with extreme caution and keep it in a safe place.
7. Seal any cracks in your home
Prevent termites from entering your property by caulking the windows, doors, screens, porch, and other cracks with a silicone caulking gun. These include gaps around electrical wires and pipes to and from your home that provide entry points for termites to enter your home.
However, in the case of a large termite infestation, it is advisable to call in professional exterminators. They will thoroughly inspect your property and take the necessary steps to get rid of termites for good.
Signs that you have termites in your home
- structural damage — If you spot tiny holes, peeling paint or crumbling wood or walls around the house, these could all indicate a termite infestation
- termite droppings — Look for granular, oval-shaped droppings (frass) around doors, windows, and baseboards.
- mud tubes — Depending on your region, underground termites have been known to form mud tubes to get out of the ground to their food. These are usually pencil-width passageways made of clay and wood. Drywood termites, on the other hand, do not make these tubes.
- Buckling of wooden or laminate floorboards — This applies in particular if your floorboards show water damage or waterlogging.
- Loose tiles — Pay attention to tiles that are loose or easily detach from the surface. This could be due to excessive moisture and termite activity.
If you are dealing with other household pests, check out how to get rid of bed bugs, how to get rid of silverfish or how to get rid of mosquitoes.