Termites are tiny critters, but their destruction is huge and detrimental. They can wreak havoc in your house in just a few months, making your wood hollow and weak. That’s why knowing preventive strategies to stop further destruction is important.
Termite damage can cost billions of dollars, affecting homeowners and the agricultural industry. These wood-destroying pests can be found anywhere, in the countryside, in suburban areas, and even in the big city. They seem unstoppable and will eat any wood available.
If you notice termite infestation signs in your home, like mud tubes, discarded wings, and paint peeling off the wall, act fast and find the best possible solution to minimize the damage. There are different termite killers, and we narrowed it down to some of the best chemical termite treatments.
5 Best Anti-Termite Chemicals For Wood
There are various ways to eradicate termites at home. Luckily, there are commercial and natural methods that can help you in keeping termites away. But most experts opt for termiticides and other chemical products that kill termites quickly.
Take a look at these 5 anti-termite chemical treatments for wood.
Taurus SC
It is the most popular termiticide, with 9.1 percent Fipronil as an active ingredient. Unlike other insecticides, it acts as a non-repellent, so termites will not know it’s there and will not try to avoid it. Allowing them to ingest, touch, and spread throughout the entire colony.
Taurus SC is a water-based suspension that can be used on or before construction. It can effectively kill termites in the span of 3 months. Plus, it is also effective against other pests like bugs, ants, and cockroaches, to name a few.
Bifen XTS
Bifen XTS is designed to kill termites and 70 other insects instantly and leave a protective barrier for up to 90 days. It is an oil-based formula that contains 25.1 percent of bifenthrin with a water-resistant and long-lasting residual effect. It is considered the fastest-acting insecticide in the market.
This easy-to-use termiticide is perfect for DIY, with a hand-held sprayer that can reach deep cracks and holes. It can be sprayed in outdoor areas and on trees, making it an ideal product for treating lawn pests.
Spectracide Terminate
Spectracide Terminate is a do-it-yourself termite control with Hexaflumoron as its main active ingredient. It comes with a kit with quick installation digging tools and an instructional manual. It kills termites and other insects and leaves a residual coat that can last for months.
Pests control experts place Spectracide Terminate to tamper-resistant bait stations where termites can consume it. Hexaflumoron interferes with the growth of the exoskeleton on termites which is vital for collecting moisture.
Termidor Foam
Termidor Foam is the most trusted termiticide available in easy-to-use pressurized foam cans. It contains Fipronil, a chemical that can effectively kill termite colonies in just 3 months. Its unique formulation offers long-lasting coverage that can penetrate thick wood walls, deep cracks, and crevices.
Termidor Foam works both indoors and outdoors. It can eradicate subterranean and drywood termites at much less cost compared to fumigation. You can apply the foam directly to affected areas for a better and faster result.
BioAdvanced Termite Killer
Compared to other termiticides in this list, BioAdvanced Termite killer is made up of granules. Its main ingredient is Imidacloprid, killing termites by attacking their central nervous system. Sprinkle the granules around your house then they will disintegrate, releasing the active compound into the soil where termites are foraging.
It is the best do-it-yourself termite solution in the market. It’s easy and simple to use and harmless to humans and pets. Also, it will not pose any serious damage to soil.
How long does it take for termites to cause damage
A single termite colony with a population of 60,000 termites could damage a 2/4 piece of wood in approximately 5 months. Termite damage can happen slowly, and over time; that’s why you will only detect it if it’s too late.
Once a termite colony invades your home, it can destroy your home unnoticed. The damage can be extensive and expensive; that’s why it’s crucial to know the early signs of wood infestation. Removing discarded logs and properly maintaining your property is the first step in preventing termite invasion.
How to make your home not a target for termites
Termites are attracted to wood, so anything with wood is a potential place to establish their colonies. If you have wooden steps connected to the ground, place a concrete block to prevent termites from climbing. Adding wood sealant or preservative to wooden structures connected to the ground prevents termites from climbing over.
Also, termites need moisture to survive, so leaks, damp basements, flooded yards, and humidity can attract termites. Cut tree branches to keep them away from the roof of your house. Always check your property for any possible signs of cracks because it can be a potential hiding place for them.
Conclusion
Prevention is always better than control. The first step to prevent termite damage is to follow the necessary methods for termite prevention. Specially formulated chemicals are designed to eliminate termites and preserve the wood for a long period. Applying them during construction is recommended.
Termites are, in no doubt, destructive pests. They are tiny, but their destructive appetite is immeasurable. Eliminating them is quite stressful and time-consuming, but using the right techniques to kill them is a good starting point.
