What to Expect From Termite Treatment

Is Professional Termite Treatment Worth It?

When it comes to getting rid of pests, there are some unwanted critters that you may be able to get rid of on your own (ants, for example). However, there are other types of pests that are not only extremely difficult to eliminate, but also dangerous to have around. Termites fall into the latter category. Professional treatment is worth it because:

• Termite colonies are persistent: Termites are some of the hardest pests to get rid of, and a lot of DIY solutions aren’t very effective. Queens can live for decades and survive even if the colony is disrupted. They may migrate to a different part of the home, bore deeper into your walls, or otherwise hide out nearby to survive despite your best efforts.
• Infestations aren’t always obvious: Just because you’ve stopped finding termites around your property doesn’t mean they aren’t still hiding, silently chewing away at your walls or support beams. Qualified exterminators have a variety of tools and techniques to detect hidden infestations to ensure you won’t have a nasty surprise a few months or years down the line. 
• Damage can be costly and dangerous: If a colony has been feeding on your home for long enough, it could cause severe damage that costs hundreds or thousands of dollars to repair. Not only that, but if they attack structural parts of the home, they could leave portions unstable and unsafe. If you have an infestation, you want to get rid of it quickly, and professionals know how to do just that. 

What is the Most Effective Termite Treatment?

While there are various termite treatment options available, many professionals consider soil-applied liquid termiticides and termite baiting systems to be among the most effective methods. Soil-applied liquid termiticides create a barrier around the perimeter of the home, preventing termites from entering. 

Termite baiting systems, on the other hand, utilize baits strategically placed around the property to attract and eliminate termite colonies. If you already have an infestation, a baiting system is likely the best option to get rid of the insects as quickly as possible.

How Does Termite Baiting Work?

Termite baiting is a proactive approach to termite control that involves strategically placing bait stations around the perimeter of a property. These bait stations contain cellulose material, such as wood, combined with a slow-acting toxic substance that is attractive to termites. 

When termites discover the bait stations, they feed on the cellulose material and then carry the toxic substance back to their colony, where it is shared with other termites through grooming and feeding behaviors. Since baiting targets the entire termite colony, including the queen, it offers longer-term results than things like liquid termiticides. 

How Long Does Termite Treatment Last?

The duration of termite treatment efficacy can vary depending on factors such as the treatment method used, environmental conditions, and the type of termites in the area. Soil-applied liquid termiticides typically provide protection for several years, with some products offering warranties lasting up to ten years or more. Termite baiting systems may require ongoing monitoring to ensure they are still effective. 

Even if you don’t have termites, it’s a good idea to invest in a professional termite inspection at least once annually. This will help you catch infestations early on before they’ve spread throughout your home or caused extensive damage. 

Is Termite Treatment Toxic to Humans or Pets?

Termite treatments often involve the use of chemicals designed to target and eliminate termite colonies. While these chemicals can be toxic to termites, they are typically formulated to pose minimal risk to humans and pets when applied correctly by trained professionals. 

However, it’s essential to exercise caution and follow any safety precautions provided by the pest control professional during and after treatment. Your technician may ask you to:

• Avoid contact with treated surfaces until they are dry.
• Ventilate the treated areas.
• Temporarily relocate pets during application.

If you have specific concerns about the toxicity of termite treatments, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your pest control provider to address any questions or considerations.

What is a Reasonable Price for Termite Treatment?

The cost of termite treatment can vary depending on factors such as the size of the property, the severity of the infestation, the type of treatment method used, and the geographic location. On average, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars for professional termite treatment. 

It may be helpful to get quotes from multiple reputable pest control companies to compare prices and services offered. Keep in mind that while cost is undoubtedly a factor to consider, it’s equally important to prioritize the effectiveness and reliability of the treatment, as inadequate or incomplete treatment can result in recurring infestations and additional expenses in the long run.

Termite Treatment in Atlanta, GA

Dealing with termites can be an incredibly stressful experience for homeowners, but you don’t have to face it alone. A local termite exterminator will understand the anxiety and uncertainty that comes with these infestations.

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