Does Termite Prevention Work?
Termites are a destructive species of pest that cause over $5 billion in damage each year in the United States. The good news is that there are effective treatments to prevent them from invading your home.
Using a termite baiting system is one of the most effective ways to protect your home. These traps sit flush with the ground surface and are not noticeable. They are placed at 8 to 10 foot intervals around the perimeter of the structure. This method of treatment is designed to mimic the natural behavior of termites.
Other methods of treatment include liquid and soil treatments. In a soil treatment, a chemical barrier is created that stops termites from tunneling through. However, this is a difficult process to achieve in practice.
A liquid termiticide remains effective for five years or more in the soil. This means that the chemical will continue to be a barrier, preventing termites from coming back to the area.
Soil treatments are the most common type of termite treatment. These are applied to the foundation of the home, as well as to the ground surrounding the house. These treatments are generally long-lasting and can be more affordable than other methods.
Another option is a non-repellent termiticide. This type of treatment does not kill termites, but it does transfer the termiticide to other termites. This is referred to as the transfer effect.
Whether you choose a liquid or soil treatment, a regular inspection is necessary to keep the termite problem at bay. If you have a history of termites, you may want to retrench the affected areas.