Eastern subterranean termites are a common pest infesting buildings in the east part of the country. They account for more than 75 percent of the termite damage in the United States. Getting rid of wood-infesting pests can be tricky, costing you up to $10,000 in repairs. How to get rid of Eastern Subterranean Termites?

However, the only way to prevent this damage is by installing an Eastern subterranean termite extermination system to protect your home, business, or recreational amenities.

Identifying and Dealing with Eastern Subterranean Termites

Identifying Eastern Subterranean Termites

Before diving into the methods of getting rid of Eastern Subterranean Termites, you need to identify if your property is infested. While these termites might not be visible to the naked eye, several signs can indicate their presence. Understanding these signs can help you swiftly mitigate the damage caused by these destructive pests.

One of the most common signs of an Eastern Subterranean Termite infestation is the presence of mud tubes. These termites construct shelter tubes or mud tubes to maintain moisture while they travel between their colony and food sources. These pencil-width tubes may be along foundation walls, crawl spaces, and other areas where the ground meets the structure. If you notice these tubes, it is essential to take immediate action as they indicate an active infestation.

Another sign of an Eastern Subterranean Termite infestation is the presence of swarmers. Swarmers are winged termites that emerge from the colony to establish new ones. If you find discarded wings or swarmers around your property, it’s a telltale sign of an infestation nearby. These winged termites are often drawn to light sources so you may find them around windowsills or light fixtures.

Preventing Termite Infestations

Prevention is always better than cure when dealing with Eastern Subterranean Termites. Implementing the following preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of termite infestations in your home.

Moisture Control:

Termites thrive in moist environments, so fixing any leakage issues in your home, such as leaky pipes, drains, faucets, or roof leaks, is essential. Additionally, ensure proper drainage around your foundation to eliminate excess moisture and prevent termites from being attracted to your property. Accurate grading and installing gutters and downspouts can help redirect water away from your home.

Remove Wood-to-Ground Contact:

Termites gain access to your home by directly contacting the soil. To prevent this, use treated wood for construction or keep untreated wood elevated at least six inches above the ground. This can include using concrete blocks or metal stands to advance wooden structures, such as sheds, decks, or playsets. Eliminating direct contact between wood and soil will make your property less attractive to termites.

Regular Inspections:

Regular inspections by a professional pest control company are crucial to detect early signs of termite infestations. By scheduling regular inspections, experts can identify any vulnerabilities in your home and take preventative measures before the problem escalates. They can locate any conducive conditions, such as cracks in the foundation or gaps in the exterior walls, which can potentially become termite entry points.

Termite Treatment Options

If you’re already dealing with an Eastern Subterranean Termite infestation, several treatment options are available to eliminate these pests effectively. Understanding these methods is essential to choose the most suitable one for your situation.

Liquid Termiticides:

One standard termite treatment option is liquid termiticides. These are pesticides specifically designed to target termites and create a chemical barrier around your property. The liquid termiticide is injected into the soil around the foundation, creating a barrier that termites cannot pass through. As termites come into contact with the treated ground, they either die or transfer the pesticide to other colony members, eliminating the infestation. Liquid termiticides provide long-term protection and are considered highly effective.

Termite Baits:

Termite baits are another popular treatment option for Eastern Subterranean Termites. These baits consist of cellulose materials laced with slow-acting insecticides. The baits are strategically placed in monitoring stations around your property. When termites feed on the bait, they ingest the insecticide and carry it back to their colony, ultimately leading to the demise of the entire termite population. This method is effective but requires time for the bait to be consumed and transferred throughout the colony. Regular monitoring of the bait stations is necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.

Foam Treatments:

In some instances, foam treatments may be recommended, especially for localized infestations. Foam treatments involve injecting foam directly into specific areas within the structure, such as wall voids or galleries, where termites feed or nest. The foam expands, filling holes and cracks and exterminating termites on contact. This method can effectively eliminate termites hidden within the walls or other inaccessible areas of the structure.

It’s important to note that while homeowners can implement some treatment options, seeking professional help when dealing with termite infestations is always advisable. Professional pest control companies have the expertise, equipment, and access to the most effective treatment methods. They will comprehensively inspect your property to determine the extent of the infestation and recommend the most appropriate treatment option for your situation.

Remember, DIY termite control may be less effective than professional treatment, especially for large or widespread infestations. Termites can be resilient and challenging to eliminate without the expertise and specialized equipment used by pest control professionals. Consulting a professional is always a wise choice if you want to ensure the most thorough and lasting solution to your termite problem.

Get Rid of Termites

Protecting your home from Eastern Subterranean Termites is essential to prevent costly damages and ensure the longevity of your property. You can effectively eliminate these destructive pests by identifying the signs of infestation, implementing preventative measures, and employing the appropriate treatment options.

If you suspect or confirm a termite infestation, taking immediate action is crucial. Contact a professional pest control company specializing in termite treatments to assess the situation and recommend the best move. Early detection and intervention are critical to minimizing the damage caused by Eastern Subterranean Termites and preserving the value of your investment.

Don’t let termites take over your home. Act now to safeguard your property and enjoy peace of mind, knowing that you have taken the necessary steps to protect your home against these silent destroyers. Visit our website and explore your options for effective termite treatment. You deserve to know how to get rid of Eastern Subterranean Termites.