Effective Termite Control Methods and Techniques at Home
Termites are everywhere in India. Since swarmers or flying termites emerge in the spring to mate and form new colonies, which can harm residential properties, it is prime season for termites. Depending on the species, they can endanger the structural strength of your home within several years because of their capacity to nibble through wood, flooring, and even wallpaper being undetected. They harm several billion dollars worth of properties every year.
Fortunately, there are numerous actions that property owners can take to lessen the risk of termites infesting their homes. Some effective termite control methods are:
- Eliminate moisture – One of the major attractions for termites and other pests entering your home is moisture. You can eradicate the nasty insects by eliminating extra moisture from your home. Purchasing a dehumidifier can be beneficial if you reside in a humid region. In the summer, you can intermittently turn on the air conditioner throughout the day to keep the house cool and remove extra moisture from the air inside.
- Expose them in the daylight – Termites can’t withstand direct sunlight. So, if you discover a termite nest near your house, you can break it open to let the sunlight reach the insects. You can place contaminated logs, furniture, or other items in your yard, under direct sun. You can’t exactly knock down a wall and throw it in the centre of your yard if you discover termites within your house. However, you can use UV lights and direct their light at the infestation.
- Use Borate – Sodium borate or borax powder can effectively eliminate termites. You can spray water mixed with the powder or sprinkle the powder directly on the termites and the affected zones. Applying the solution on wood surfaces provides your home with protection. It is particularly effective for new construction and acts as a termite repellent when you use it before priming and painting wooden items.
- Buy Nematodes – Termites are a favourite food source for nematodes – parasitic worms. You can buy nematodes from online stores or your local chemical supply stores. Discharge them into a termite colony near your place. You can destroy the pest without touching any toxic or chemical compound.
- Apply essential oil – According to the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, clove bud oil and garlic oil act as pesticides. Other effective oils are neem, tea tree, cinnamon and orange oils.
Apart from the above termite control methods, you can say goodbye to termites by keeping your house and nearby areas clean and dry. There should be at least an 18-inch distance between soil and wood. However, the methods are inefficient if there is a heavy infestation. You should contact a pest control company to bring the situation under control.